A mule is a domestic equine hybrid between a male donkey (jack) and a female horse (mare) . The horse and the donkey are different species, with different numbers of chromosomes, and of the two possible first-generation hybrids between them, the mule is easier to obtain and more common than the hinny, which is the offspring of a female donkey (jenny) and a male horse (stallion) . Mules combine characteristics of both horse and donkey parents to create a tougher, more resilient animal.
Here are some key facts about mules:
- Mules vary widely in size, from small miniature mules under 125 cm (50 in) to large and powerful draught mules standing up to 180 cm (70 in) at the withers.
- They are more patient, hardier, and longer-lived than horses, and are perceived as less obstinate and more intelligent than donkeys.
- Mules have the thin limbs, small narrow hooves, and short mane of the donkey, while their height, the shape of the neck and body, the uniformity of their coat, and their teeth are more similar to those of the horse.
- Mules are less dangerous than their parents, and are more docile, even-tempered, and more intelligent than stallions.
Mules have been the workhorse of human civilization for millennia, and are famous the world over for their great strength and gentle manner.
