How to Adopt One of Arizona’s Wild Burros

Burros and the History of the Old West

You can't tell the story of the Old West without talking about the history of mining in Arizona. The mining industry brought a wide array of settlers to what was then known as the Arizona Territory. More than 150 years ago, those miners also brought donkeys and mules to help with the mining operations.

Since then, the descendants of those donkeys have roamed freely across Arizona's public lands, and the increasing number of wild burros has raised concerns with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).

READ: How to Be a Wildlife Hero with the Tucson Wildlife Center

The BLM raised concerns about the safety of both animals and humans. Many of the animals are encroaching on roadways and have even caused accidents. The overpopulation of these creatures is impacting the ecosystem, too, and the BLM has a plan to help with both issues.

The Burro Overpopulation Challenge

The Black Mountain Herd Management Area (HMA), managed by the BLM in Arizona, hosts the largest wild burro herd on public land. As of last fall, the current population of wild donkeys is estimated to be near 2,000.

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Burros impact the ecosystem through overgrazing, habitat degradation, and the increased chance of roadway collisions between them and vehicles.

READ: Easy Ways You Can Hydrate Arizona's Heat-Stressed Wildlife

How the BLM is Helping Wild Burros in Arizona

Earlier this year, the BLM began rounding up around 1,000 wild burros from the Black Mountain Herd Management Area. After veterinary checks and some training, the animals are now available for sale and adoption.

Contact the Wild Horse and Burro Adoption and Sales Program to adopt a wild burro. Learn more about the requirements here.

Sources:  Bureau of Land Management | KNAU | BLM: Adopt a Wild Burro