Burros in Custer State Park

The burros in Custer State Park are not indigenous to the area, but were introduced in the 1920’s by an entrepreneur who used them to carry tourists up Mt. Harney. When his venture failed in the 1930’s, he let the burros loose. Currently there are two small herds, about 15-20 burros in each. Although the burros behave in an extraordinarily gentle manner, considering their size, they do occasionally kick with their hind legs, and sometimes will nip a tourist. The herds are kept within manageable size by selling some every year during the bison auction. The burros will make their desire known, by sticking their head into an open window.

We did not have food, so I kept the window closed, Linda was very upset with me, She wanted a lap full of burro head.