Northern Utah’s metropolis’ loss is Millard County’s gain with the relocation of Reptile Rescue Service to Delta, now known as Reptile Jim’s Reptile Park. Delta now has a “zoo” of its own. The new home for Reptile Rescue is located in Delta at 696 North Hwy 6, Building B. It is licensed as a reptile park, which is basically a zoo. Owner James Dix has permits from the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources to hold, rescue, provide care and exhibit snakes, other reptiles and exotic animal species.

The hundreds of animals cared for by Dix and his crew of volunteers come into custody by donation and confiscation. Some owners can no longer care for an animal because they are about to move or the animal has grown too large. These animals are turned over to the facility. Other animals are taken by law enforcement officers in the performance of their duty. Many snakes and alligators come to Reptile Rescue from drug busts where the animals were used to camouflage/protect drugs stashed in their cages.

“All we ask is that the animal is turned over permanently for us to save and/or trade. Animals remain permanently at the shelter. Some are used to trade for other animals. Some are shipped back to their original homes, like the alligators,” said Dix.

Animals are traded to increase the variety of animals on display. The Reptile Park uses non-native animals for display and education purposes. They provide year-round educational opportunities for libraries, schools, churches, youth groups, civic organizations and community events. These presentations include a variety of both native and exotic species, and provide a hands-on learning opportunity for kids and grown-ups alike.

Reptile Rescue has displays of venomous snakes, native snakes, and reptiles, exotic snakes, turtles and tortoises, spiders and scorpions and more.

Reptile Rescue is a non-profit organization that is supported financially by Jim Dix, with the help of others through donations. Donations to Reptile Rescue Service are gratefully accepted. They also provide animal stars for motion pictures, video production, promotional events, or as a subject for photography for a price. They will also provide reptiles for birthday parties. If you have a child that loves snakes, lizards, turtles, frogs, spiders, etc., we’re the ones to call.

Volunteers are welcome to help care for the animals. It can be quite a learning experience. Call 801-860-2497 for more information.

Taken from Millard County Chronicle Progress, January 18, 2012

REPTILE JIM’S REPTILE PARK

696 North Hwy 6, Bldg B

Delta, Utah 84624

801-860-2497