Jack,

Did you know that wild burros can recognize each other’s voices from more than a mile away? Or that they can sprint faster than a coyote in a chase? These smart, sturdy animals are full of surprises — and their impact on our environment goes far beyond what meets the eye.

Photo Credit: Steve Paige

In honor of Burro Awareness Month, here are six fascinating facts about these often-overlooked desert dwellers:

• A donkey never forgets. Burros have an astonishing memory — they can recall other burros and familiar places even after 25 years apart.
• Burros put on a brave face. As a survival instinct, burros tend to mask pain or weakness to avoid becoming targets in the wild. But just because they look tough doesn’t mean they aren’t suffering.
• Donkeys are digestion machines. Burros make the most of every bite. Their efficient systems extract up to 95% of the nutrients from what they eat.
• Burro babies aren’t born for a YEAR! The average burro pregnancy lasts 11 to 14.5 months. Most foals are born at night, when it’s safest.
• Burros are ecosystem engineers! Burros create life-giving water holes in desert regions. These mini-oases provide essential hydration for a wide range of wildlife.
• The blind burro buddy system: Blind burros often form deep bonds with sighted companions who help lead the way. And get this: Donkeys can see all four of their feet at once!

Jack, wild burros may keep quiet about their pain, but they should NOT have to suffer in silence. At American Wild Horse Conservation, we’re fighting to end inhumane government policy and ensure burros get the protection they deserve. Will you make a quick donation to support our work?

For the wild ones,

Team AWHC