It’s become an annual tradition at public libraries throughout Stanislaus County.

For the past two decades, Python Ron McGee has entertained and educated people of all ages with his exhibit of slithering and crawling creatures and on Thursday he brought his show to the Ceres Library.

“Ron is one of our biggest draws,” said Ceres Library Supervisor Rebecca Brown. “Everyone wants to see what excitement he brings.”

About 120 people attended to watch McGee unbox pythons, lizards, a tortoise, a tarantula and a hissing cockroach.

“It’s a whole different experience when you see them in person as opposed to behind glass at the zoo,” he said. 

Kids of all ages were among the attendees, including Audrey Reyes (9), Alexis Reyes (5), Sofia Moya (9), Rafael Moya (6), Abigail Valencia (7) and Lilly Morais (3).

“They saw him in Salida last year,” said James Reyes, the father of Audrey and Alexis. “A lot of kids want to go up there and touch the animals. Everything is so calm.”

“It’s not really scary,” said Audrey, who smiled when McGee wrapped a python around her waist during last week’s event.  “I know that they’re trained. It’s fun.”

“There were a lot of children here today,” said Gabriela Moya, mother of Sofia and Rafael. “It motivates families to come back to other activities they have here.”

“My favorite part was when he (McGee) put the snake around my waist,” Sofia added.

“We come to the library all the time,” said Mike Morais, Lilly’s father. “We saw this on the schedule and decided to come see animals. I don’t think I’ve seen this many people here before. It’s great.”

A professional herpetologist, McGee’s interest in slithering and crawling creatures dates back to his childhood.

“I grew up in Snelling,” he said. “When I woke up, I went outside. My whole day was exploring and catching bugs, snakes and lizards.”

McGee will continue to share his passion at libraries, schools, company picnics and weddings

“I have the best job in the world,” he said. “I work with kids all day long and I get paid for it.”