SALT LAKE CITY (AP) -- Utah transportation officials are trying to evict a reptile rescuer who's using his rental home as a shelter for hundreds of animals.

The Utah Department of Transportation filed papers on Friday against James Dix of West Valley City. The Deseret News of Salt Lake City reports (http://bit.ly/qpCxgM ) Dix has more than 900 rescued animals at his home.

The transportation department got involved because the home is in the path of a planned freeway called the Mountain View Corridor. It says that Dix was paid more than $18,000 to vacate, but has failed to meet deadlines.

Court records show Salt Lake City's 3rd District Court has issued a summons for Dix.

Dix told the Associated Press on Wednesday he has found a new place, but has been delayed by zoning problems.

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Information from: Deseret News, http://www.deseretnews.com