Spain’s “Donkey Brigade” keeps Doñana National Park fire-free for 9 years

Andalusia, Spain: While wildfires burned across Spain during the recent heat dome, Doñana National Park stayed safe — thanks to donkeys.

A team of grazing donkeys works fire breaks from March to November, eating shrubs and dry grass that could fuel flames. The park hasn’t had a wildfire in 9 years.

Conservationists say donkeys work better than sheep or goats because they eat more and trample more vegetation. It’s a low-impact method that also protects Doñana’s wildlife, including the Iberian lynx.

The idea is spreading. Regions including Catalonia, Galicia, and the Basque Country have now launched their own “donkey brigades.”

“Since we introduced donkeys, there have been no wildfires,” said Joan Cedó of Catalonia’s Tivissa Donkeys Firefighters.