The reptile man always packs the house, and the Forest Grove city library was at capacity last Thursday as kids and adults alike flocked to see what Richard Ritchey brought to exhibit - from cobras to pit vipers, alligators to snapping turtles, the scene was on an epic scale.

Ritchey, a fan favorite, has been coming to the library for more than a decade. He has been touring the Pacific Northwest for even longer, visiting more than 20,000 people each year.

Most of the animals in the show have been rescued and Ritchey is known for his skilled handling.

Librarian Ann Dondero, who helps organize the popular show, said the kids have so much fun they often don't even realize how much they are learning.