 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Mule Facts |
Mules have been bred and used for centuries as draft, pack, and riding animals. Mules are mentioned in the Bible, as well as appearing in Assyrian bas-relief. The United States Military Academy at West Point, New York has kept mules as the official mascot since the late 19th century. "Big White" was the first of the mule mascots, and at his first appearance at the Army vs. Navy football game, kicked Navy's mascot goat nearly into the bleachers. Mules have been a favorite of our nation's leaders as well. George Washington was an excellent horseman, but felt horses "ate too much, worked too little, and died too young". In order to obtain an animal that better suited his needs, Washington imported jackstock from Spain and France and began breeding mules. A mule's nose is usually lighter than their body color. Mules can be used for the same purposes as horses and donkeys, such as jumping, chariot racing, pack trips down the Grand Canyon, dressage, driving, and much more. Mules are sterile (they cannot produce offspring), but both males and females show some normal sexual characteristics and behavior (ex. mare mules come in season and horse mules show aggressive behavior). Terms Draft Mule = mule offspring from a draft horse mare |