Goodbye to a Beloved Mule: Raymond the Legend Passes Away
Corolla, North Carolina, is in mourning after the loss of a very unique resident. Raymond, the irascible mule who lived much of his life convinced he was a horse, has peacefully passed on at the age of about 28. The Corolla Wild Horse Fund shared this bittersweet news with the community on a heartwarming Facebook post on November 6, detailing Raymond’s long, adventurous life and his eventual passing on October 30.
A Life of Mischief and Charisma
Raymond wasn’t just any mule; he was known by various endearing nicknames including Jack, Rebel, and Burrito. Herd manager Meg Puckett fondly remembers him as a spirited character who spent most of his life in the wild, living just like the other horses. “He had quite the harem of mares, raised foals, and fought other stallions for territory,” Puckett said. Despite being *sterile* and not the biological father of any of the foals he raised, he carried out his duties with pride and fierce tenacity. Most stallions steered clear of him; he had a reputation for being quite the warrior!
Well-Traveled but Troubled
Raymond’s journey began as the offspring of a wild mare and a donkey. His existence on the beautiful barrier islands posed unique challenges. According to Puckett, he lacked many adaptations that feral horses typically have, including proper hoof growth. His hooves would often grow to deformed lengths, making it difficult for him to walk. This condition led to multiple attempts to *trap him and correct his hooves*, catching locals’ attention with his stubborn refusal to comply with traditional measures.
After facing ongoing struggles with his hooves, Raymond was eventually taken to a retirement farm managed by the Corolla Wild Horse Fund, which provides care for around 100 wild “Banker” horses. “He settled right in,” Puckett shared. “We created a space just for him where he could be comfortable, without the horses challenging his authority.” Over the years, the staff became entwined with Raymond’s personality, attempting to accommodate all of his many quirks.
A Social Media Sensation
Over time, the *legend of Raymond* grew beyond the borders of Corolla. His endearing story captured the hearts of many on social media, allowing him to achieve a sort of celebrity status. Fans designed Christmas ornaments, posters, and stickers dedicated to his larger-than-life personality, forever cementing his image as more than just a mule.
A Difficult Decision
Sadly, the day came when Puckett and the team had to make the heart-wrenching choice to euthanize Raymond after he was diagnosed with a scrotal hernia affecting his intestines. “Quality of life was our priority, and he was definitely a happy mule right up until the end,” Puckett conveyed, her voice tinged with emotion. His passing marks the end of an incredible chapter in Corolla’s history, as he was the last known offspring of the *wild horse and domestic stock* mix that originated when donkeys ran free in the Outer Banks.
The Legacy Lives On
While the loss of Raymond has left a profound void in the hearts of his caretakers and the community, Puckett reflected on the extraordinary life he led. “Finding the right words to honor Raymond’s legacy is tough,” she admitted. “He represented everything a *Banker* should be — resilient, adaptive, and smart. Truly, he was the salt of the earth.”
As Corolla bids farewell to their beloved mule, the memories of Raymond will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of many for years to come. Rest easy, Raymond. Your spirit will forever gallop through the memories of this beautiful place.
