Two decades ago, Germán Flores, a resident of Otumba in Mexico State, embarked on a mission to preserve the Mexican donkey, an endangered species whose population has declined significantly in recent decades. The donkey population in Mexico, estimated at around 300,000 today, fell by approximately 60% between 1994 and 2010. Concerned by this trend and the ongoing mistreatment of donkeys, Flores founded Burrolandia in 2006 with his family to provide care and protection for donkeys rescued mainly from exploitation and abuse across the country.

Donkeys have played a vital role in Mexican history and society since their introduction by Spanish colonizers centuries ago. They adapted to Mexico’s diverse environments and became indispensable in agriculture, construction, and transportation, especially in rural areas. However, modernization and mechanization have reduced the animals’ utility, leading many owners to abandon or mistreat them. This decline has been compounded by other threats, including clandestine slaughterhouses that kill donkeys to sell their meat as cheaper beef or to produce chitos, a salted dried meat snack. Additionally, the export of donkey skins to supply ejiao—a traditional Chinese medicinal product—has contributed to the population’s decrease. According to Burrolandia, the donkey skin industry consumes approximately 5.9 million skins annually worldwide, with Mexico being a significant exporter, although official government data on this trade remain unavailable.

Burrolandia currently houses about 100 donkeys and relies on reports from the public to identify animals in need of rescue. However, as an independent entity with limited resources, the organization cannot respond to every case. The sanctuary sustains its operations partly through public visits and fundraising events, as feeding the donkeys requires approximately 400 kilograms of oats and alfalfa daily, translating to around $6,000 per month in expenses.

The sanctuary’s location in Otumba is notable because the town also hosts an annual national donkey fair on May 1. While the event ostensibly celebrates donkeys, it often features contests and races that many critics say contribute to the animals’ mistreatment. Flores and his family actively participate in the fair, promoting more humane treatment of donkeys and educating visitors about their care. They have also created donkey-themed events and even customized cars to resemble donkeys, highlighting non-exploitative ways to engage with the animals.

Flores, inspired by his own childhood experiences with a donkey that helped his family economically, describes the animals as noble and affectionate, offering a sense of peace and emotional balance. His son, Raúl, now assists at Burrolandia and emphasizes the broader significance of preserving donkeys as a symbol of the country’s historical development and rural labor.

Despite the challenges, Burrolandia represents a unique effort to safeguard an important but endangered part of Mexico’s cultural and natural heritage. The sanctuary continues to advocate for the welfare of donkeys, striving to ensure these animals receive the respect and care they deserve amid ongoing threats.