Donkeys: An unexpected icon of the Inland Empire

EDITOR’S NOTE: This photo essay by Photography Editor Roman Davison first appeared in the Nov. 20, 2025 print edition of Viewpoints. We are now publishing this creative piece online for our readers. Notably, the New York Times released a photo essay on Dec. 6 featuring the same wild donkeys in Moreno Valley. While likely coincidental, the overlap highlights the growing interest in this unique local story.

To me, Donkeys are an iconic symbol of the Inland Empire, specifically in Moreno Valley. They are valued amongst the community of the IE.

A single donkey stops in the middle of the road in the Hidden Springs neighborhoods in Moreno Valley on Nov. 3. While they move through the city, burros often find themselves in the road. This can lead to outcomes such as car crashes, potential injury and death. (Roman Davison | Viewpoints)

They have ambiguous origins, spanning from the California Gold Rush to the migration from Death Valley to their present existence in the IE, which matters most.

A pack of donkeys roam around Box Springs Mountain Reserve in Moreno Valley on Nov. 6. Donkeys traverse around these particular mountains often, with large groups being easily found here. Displacement could be detrimental to dinkey since the mountains would be their natural environment. (Roman Davison | Viewpoints)

Moreno Valley has laws in place to protect donkeys, such as criminalizing harm to them. These laws put in place show an effort of love and respect that the city itself holds towards the burros.

While going through challenges such as miscellaneous arrows shot at them and the relocation to Texas through Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue, the unofficial mascots seem to command love from community members.

This treatment shows a strong dedication to communities and wildlife coexisting.

A pair of donkeys drink water from the tub at Box Springs Mountain Reserve in Moreno Valley on Nov. 5. This tub represents the care that residents give towards the donkeys by making sure they are hydrated. (Roman Davison | Viewpoints)

Regardless of the issues donkeys have received or could potentially receive in the future, donkeys continue to prevail and have a powerful impact on the city of Moreno Valley.