That was my first thought too, but it's certainly possible in some locations. They can live a pretty decent amount of time with no host and in more tropical climates like FL or similar I could certainly see wild reptiles being active this time of year. Still like 90% it's the store but I wouldn't swear on it.
Snake mites aren't native though, only other kinds of mites are- although when snakes escape or are released & happen to have them, I guess they could take hold in wild snakes too- it's just not an issue so far (as far as I know?) & I hope it never is.
Rudeness is the weak man's imitation of strength. Eric Hoffer(1902 - 1983)
“The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated.” ~ Gandhi