Local Hudson Valley Reptile and Rescue organization will be visiting the Gardiner Library with exotic reptiles to meet during the Hudson Valley Reptile and Rescue Program, on Saturday, February 11 from 1-2 p.m.

The event is open to all ages, is free of charge and does not require registration to attend. Guests will have the opportunity to meet and learn about these unique animals. The Gardiner Library is located at 133 Farmer’s Turnpike in Gardiner.

The Hudson Valley Reptile and Rescue was started in 2004 essentially as an SPCA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) for reptiles, working to rehome and rehabilitate unwanted pet reptiles from owners who can no longer care for them due to their own life changes.

Thankfully, most come from safe homes. Still, the rescue’s primary function focuses on relocating the animals into good homes and healthy environments.

“In the 18 years I have been doing this we haven’t had a reptile come back yet,” said Brian Parkhurst, Founder and Executive Director of Hudson Valley Reptile and Rescue. “For the most part it’s matching the correct animal with the correct household.”

About five years ago the organization held a State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) license which allowed them to accept larger constrictors, such as the American alligator. But as of now, they focus mostly on reptiles that are legal to own in New York state.

Parkhurst notes two of the most unique creatures out of the small group of animal “ambassadors” living in the rescue, as ‘Tito the Giant Tegu’ a three foot long, nearly 20 pound South American lizard that has been at the Hudson Valley Reptile Rescue for a year and a half. Another fan favorite is ‘Han Banana’ a four and a half foot ball python who has been doing shows for over a decade showing off his active and curious personality to his audience.

Several years ago, an entire 20 gallon aquarium tank containing a ball python was disposed of, containing a reptile affectionately known as ‘Dumpster Snake.’ Fortunately, just about five months after coming into the rescue, he was adopted by a loving family.

Recently, the organization has obtained a couple bearded dragons that have been abandoned on the side of the road or left outside. If absolutely necessary upon arrival, the rescue will also seek and provide medical attention to the animals.

In addition to rescue and rehabilitation work, Hudson Valley Reptile and Rescue also offers educational reptile care guides on their website, and are available to answer any and all care questions on their Facebook page.

Parkhurst’s advice and knowledge lies in these two statements: “Just because you can own it, doesn’t mean you should.” His second being, “Do your research before obtaining an animal.”

For more information on this upcoming event, visit gardinerlibrary.org.