RE: [Philmont]: Burros

The last post on burros by Phil is interesting because it points out that
each burro has
its own personality, as do many other animals. We have three cats
and one is very laid back, a second scampers for cover when it
sees anyone approach, and a third is an oriental breed that likes
attention.

Horse personalities are all over the map. I tried to ride one once
that absolutely liked to please its rider and would do a really gentle
"rocking chair" canter. Another was the opposite and would only
trot in a very jerky fashion, the clear intention being to bounce
its rider off its back.

It may be that a burro isn't so much slow as it has a mind of its
own. When it doesn't want to go, it goes slow or completely
stops. When it does go it can move with surprising speed.

The key to a satisfactory burro experience is to make friends with
your burro. A handful of something they like to eat (no trail food,
just some grain or grass), getting scratched behind the ears, or
petting will win them over. Once the burro is on your side they
really will work to please you.

Since they are strong and can carry your gear they provide a hiking
experience where you are relieved of the weight of your backpack,
and that can be a great assist, particularly when you are in mid trek
and your muscles are getting a bit sore.

I'm glad Philmont has kept the burro program all these years. Burros have
been great part of the history of the American Southwest, and it's a real
opportunity to get to know this animal at Philmont. Many will not see
another burro anywhere else.

Joe Jansen
JAJansenJr@gmail.com
Philmont 1965; 1978

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Received on Sun Mar 26 08:58:41 2006