The Magnificent and Majestic Mule

As you know, we at Bend’s Broken Arrow Ranch and Sanctuary are on a mission to rescue horses, burros and mules from the slaughter pipeline, educate people about this heinous industry and be an advocate for policy changes to protect our equines. Some people might not be as attuned to how majestic mules are so in this article, we want to share with their amazing qualities!

Mules are remarkable hybrids born from the union of a male donkey and a female horse. They embody a captivating blend of strength, intelligence, and endurance. Their astonishing adaptability and versatility make them awe-inspiring creatures. With the best qualities of both parent species, mules possess the surefootedness of a mountain goat, the patience of a saint, and the heart of a relentless adventurer.

These incredible equines, blessed with a unique set of attributes, have been loyal companions, reliable pack animals, and tireless workers throughout history. Whether traversing treacherous terrains, plowing fields, or serving as trusty mounts, mules have left an indelible mark on the human experience. As we explore the captivating world of mules, it becomes apparent that their exceptional nature is a testament to the magnificence of the natural world and the boundless wonders it can produce.

Cravin and Flora - Mules Rescued from Broken Arrow Ranch and Sanctuary of Bend/Prinville

Are Mules Actually Stubborn As the Old Saying Goes?

Mules are often considered "stubborn" due to their cautious and thoughtful nature, which can be mistaken for defiance. In reality, they possess a strong sense of self-preservation inherited from their wild donkey ancestors. When faced with unfamiliar situations, mules pause to assess risks before acting. This behavior ensures their safety and is beneficial for tasks like packing and navigating challenging terrains. Mules may not respond to pressure or commands like horses, but it reflects their intelligence. Experienced handlers appreciate mules' loyalty, hard work, and affection. Patience and trust-building are essential for successful collaboration with mules, debunking the stubborn stereotype and revealing their invaluable qualities.

Qualities of Mules

Mules possess several excellent qualities that make them valuable and endearing animals:

Intelligence: Mules are known for their high level of intelligence. They are quick learners and can understand and remember commands and tasks well. A 2009 study had even found that mules learned more quickly than their donkey and horse parents.

Surefootedness: Mules have a remarkable sense of balance and surefootedness, making them highly adept at navigating challenging terrains, such as steep mountains or rocky trails.

Strength and Endurance: Mules inherit the best physical qualities from both their donkey and horse parents, resulting in exceptional strength and endurance. They can carry heavy loads and cover long distances without tiring easily.

Cautious and Thoughtful: Mules' cautious and thoughtful nature is often mistaken for stubbornness. However, this behavior is a reflection of their innate instincts for self-preservation and helps keep them and their handlers safe.

Loyalty and Bonding: Mules can form strong bonds with their handlers when treated with respect and kindness. Once they establish trust, they become loyal and reliable companions.

Versatility: Mules are highly versatile animals, capable of performing various tasks, such as packing, riding, driving, and agricultural work. Their adaptability makes them invaluable in different working environments.

Long Life Spans: Mules tend to have a longer lifespan compared to some horse breeds, averaging 35-40 years old. Some mules have been know to live until 50!

Low Maintenance: Mules are generally hardy animals, requiring less maintenance and veterinary care than some purebred horse breeds.

Resilience: Mules exhibit a strong immune system and resistance to certain equine diseases, thanks to the combination of their donkey and horse genetics.

Environmental Impact: Mules have a lighter environmental impact compared to mechanized vehicles, making them eco-friendly options for certain tasks, especially in remote areas or sensitive environments.

Overall, mules' intelligence, strength, surefootedness, and adaptability make them remarkable and cherished partners in various industries, recreational activities, and conservation efforts.

Mules at Bend/Prineville’s Broken Arrow Ranch & Sanctuary

Over at BARS, we have a few magnificent mules living their best lives! “Cravin” is our largest mule and likes to hang out with Shiloh’s herd. Cravin was rescued from a Oklahoma kill pen and is protective of all the mares.

“Benson,” “Flora,” and “Milly” are three other mules who also came from the Oklahoma kill pens. Cravin an Flora got turned out to pasture while at the kill pens. They escaped to the far back field and were there for months without being detected. Milly and Benson were rescued together.  Milly is so sweet and loves treats! Like Benson, she was very curious about the nearby wild horses.

We also had our first foal born on Mother’s day and he was a mule….little Sammy.  Very healthy and a ton of character!

Sammy