Making Friends With Burros

As we were leaving Beatty, Nevada, we stopped at the corner gas station for fuel before leaving town. I glanced over and saw the herd of burros that frequented the town. I had seen many pictures and read about different encounters tourists had, and hoped we would have the same experience. There they were, just strolling across the street as if they were using the crosswalk. I asked my mom, “Do you mind if I get some pictures?” She said, “Go for it.”

So, I excitedly grabbed my camera and inserted myself into the group of tourists gathered around, all with their phones up, capturing the moment. I was a little disappointed at the time and got back in my car, saying, “Well, that was a bummer, I couldn’t get a shot with all the people gathered around.”

Just then, I noticed the burros kept walking down the street, and I said, “Do you mind if I drive around the block and try again?” Mom said, “Of course not.” We went around the block, and there they were. I parked far enough back so as not to scare them. I said, “Can you grab some pictures of me taking their pictures?” She said, “Sure.”

I got out of the car and slowly walked toward them, thinking maybe I could get a passing shot as they walked by. Strolling halfway toward them, I got down on my haunches to get the shot, and before I knew it, the whole group, including the babies, had stopped when they reached me. They then proceeded to surround me like I was a quarterback about to call a play. One rested his head on my left shoulder while another licked my exposed knee through a hole in my jeans.

At this time, I began to pet one while taking pictures of the others. Then they slowly departed, meandering down the street with not a care in the world. It was an incredible experience I will never forget.