Missouri Animal

Missouri Mule

(Equus spp.)

Adopted on May 31, 1995

The Missouri Mule was chosen as the official animal of the State of Missouri by the 88th General Assembly in 1995. Known for its strength, hardiness, intelligence, even temper – and healthy stubbornness – the mule has come to symbolize Missouri. The pride of Missouri breeders, mules have built railroads, logged forests, plowed fields, mined coal and helped win wars. The US exported about 232,000 mules during World War I, many coming from Missouri. Although still an excellent work animal, the majority of Missouri's mules today are bred for show. Exhibited at the State Fair in Sedalia and at many county fairs, they range from massive draft mules weighing up to 1,200 pounds to beautifully proportioned miniature mules. What ever their size, they're Missouri mules . . . and that means they're the best.

On May 31, 1995, Governor Mel Carnahan signed a bill designating the Missouri mule as the official state animal. The mule is a hybrid, the offspring of a mare (female horse) and a jack (male donkey). After its introduction to the state in the 1820s, the mule quickly became popular with farmers and settlers because of its hardy nature. Missouri mules pulled pioneer wagons to the Wild West during the 19th century and played a crucial role in moving troops and supplies in World Wars I and II. For decades, the Show Me State was the nation's premier mule producer. (RSMo 10.110)