For the last 20 years that's the way it's been. He didn't always charge to get in, but he will take your money any way he can. The mites are always free though and have been for a loooooong time. Also, if you ever do consider buying anything online, the pictures you see are not the animals you buy.
jay may be an ok person, but I'd never purchase anything from him. He also has a bit of a problem with exaggeration and honesty.