Tough Beasts, Mules
Historically, certain animals have been bred purely for their strength and toughness. The mule is a hybrid from breeding a male donkey or jackass with a female horse. These animals have existed since ancient times with the earliest mention of them occurring prior to 3000 B.C.
This week’s What’s New Wednesday celebrates this hybrid in the form of a draft mule collar. Made of leather, the collar went around the neck of the animal so that it could haul heavy machinery. In general, these true beasts of burden eat less, boast stronger skin, possess more endurance and are equipped with more resistance to sun and rain than horses of equal size. Their hooves are also harder than horses, allowing them to carry heavy loads through rocky terrain. These adaptations from both horses and donkeys make mules very tough beasts. Be sure to celebrate these hybrids on Oct. 26, National Mule Day.
1995:025:002 SDAHM Collection, donated by Casey and Maureen Diggins
