Are you ready for another wild sight in nature? A long-lost pet donkey called Diesel was seen living with a herd of wild elk in California. Yes, you read that right – a donkey living with an elk herd!
Diesel’s Disappearance
Five years ago, Terrie Drewry’s favorite donkey ran off during a hike in Wyoming. The poor fella caught a fright from a mountain lion and took off never to be seen again. Leaving Terrie and her husband, Dave, heartbroken and worried.
The Search
Of course, as all pet owners would, they searched endlessly for their beloved Diesel. And a couple of months after his disappearance they caught sight of him on a trail camera. The sad news is, after this sighting the search ran cold.
Yearning
Terrie and Dave have a couple of other donkeys that they love and care for. Yet, their hearts never stopped missing and worrying about their beloved Diesel – always hoping that he was safe and happy!
Wait, What?
Then one day, something incredible happened. Max Fennell went hunting in Auburn, California when he saw the strangest thing! A donkey looking very comfortable with a herd of elk. What a bizarre sight!
Bizarre Family
As if seeing the donkey stand out like a sore thumb among the elk herd wasn’t strange enough, it seemed like he was a part of the herd, moving and grazing together! You can just imagine what went through Max’s mind at this stage!
Alpha-Donkey/Elk
And guess who this donkey is? It’s Diesel! Terry’s long-lost friend. What’s even better, is that it seems like Diesel has moved up in life and looks to be the leader of the elk. Max explained that when Diesel moved, the elk followed.
Payback?
What’s more, a warden in the area found a dead mountain lion, that was suspected to have been stomped by a hooved animal – with Diesel as the main suspect! Might this be a possible payback for scaring him that day on the hike?
Stunned!
When the news got to the Drewrys they were absolutely stunned! Their long-lost pet donkey was living with a herd of wild elk and seemed to be flourishing in his new environment. They are just all too happy to know that Diesel is alive and well, living his best life.
Freedom
Terry says that even though she would love to catch Diesel and bring him back home, that will not be happening. He is living wild and free – a freedom he has earned!
Adaptation in the Wild
Diesel’s adaptation to living with elk is quite fascinating. It seems like he has integrated seamlessly into the herd, showing us the unexpected bonds that can be formed between animals in the wild.
What Do Donkeys Eat in the Wild?
Donkeys are herbivores and graze on various grasses, shrubs, and vegetation. Diesel most likely adapted his diet to match what was available in the elk’s habitat.
Elk and Donkey Communication
Elk and donkeys generally communicate in different ways of body language and sounds. Yet, despite these differences Diesel and his new elk family have found a way to coexist in harmony!
No Threat
Elk are known to be social animals, and from time to time accept other species as one of their own if they do not pose a threat. Suggesting that the elk didn’t see Diesel as a threat, and allowed them to be one of them!
Diesel’s Impact on the Herd
Diesel’s presence likely affects the dynamics of the elk herd in several ways. As a non-native member, he may influence their movement patterns and behavior. However, from what we see and hear, the elk have accepted him fully and even followed him around!
Hierarchy
As most social animals, elk also determine hierarchy in the herd and follow their leader. It is suggested that Diesel plays this role in the herd. It could be due to a display of dominance through physical interaction or vocal communication, either way, it seems to working for this group!
What Would Happen If Diesel Returned Home?
Reintegrating a long-lost pet like Diesel would not be easy. As pets who have adapted to the wild might have undergone changes in their behavior and will struggle to be domesticated again. And together with Diesel’s happiness, might be why Terrie decided to let him remain free!
The Video
Watch the video here.
Last Say
This is a bizarre story of animal cooperation between species, but it warms my heart at the same time to see how this long-lost donkey has found a happy and free home with his new elk herd! Do you know of any other stories similar to this?
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