Where the latest technologies and modern machines are powerless, pack animals still pass, like many centuries ago. People use them to transport goods, move to them themselves. They confidently pass through the enveloping desert sands and dangerous mountain paths, without the need for oil control, tank replenishment and constant technical inspection. These patient workers will be discussed.
Camel
In terms of its strengths and amazing capabilities, the camel is certainly the leader in the list of "pack animals". He, like no other animal, is able to stay without water for a long time and eat only cacti that come across during the transition - food is scarce and low in calories, while carrying up to 200 kg of weight. Surprisingly, with such a load, in unbearable heat, with virtually no water, a camel travels up to four (or even more) kilometers in an hour. This pack animal is popular in Africa, Asia, Afghanistan. It is well known that camelswere also used in military actions. So, in India, the British were supposed to have 2 thousand camels for a composition of two thousand soldiers and fifty officers, and in Algeria, the French relied on a group of pack animals in the amount of 2 thousand heads to move commanders, officers and escorts (400 people) and transport cargo. Pack transport was also very important in the famous Akhal-Teke expedition (1880).
Hinny, mule
These four-legged helpers are capable of lifting up to 190 kg, but they move only for short distances. Typically, these pack animals carry 50-60 kg (a hinny - twice as much). Very appreciated in mountainous areas, when you have to move goods, following the rocky and narrow paths. Both mules and hinnies do not need frequent stops and long breaks. At the same time, they do not refuse the simplest food. If necessary, they can cover up to 70 km per day.
Donkey
The weight of the loads he lifts is inferior to the lifting force of a camel or hinny (up to 50 kg). But he is strong, tireless, has a sure step (does not stumble even on difficult paths). The speed of movement of a donkey with bales is no more than 5 km per hour (up to 40 km per day).
Packhorse
She is able to go wherever the guide (human) goes. Pack horses differ from riding horses in that they have a smaller stature (about one and a half meters), a deep chest, a long body, a strong back and a wide loin. Legs are dry, with hard hooves. Beforepack horses were divided into artillery and conventional cargo horses. The first type was used for pulling heavy equipment and had to be dense, with short legs, with a straight short back. Light suits (gray, white) were not used. For these purposes, only mature animals, from four years old, were selected. Four such horses were harnessed to transport the cannon. Cargo horses carried up to 80 kg.
Pack bull
Used less frequently than other pack animals. Despite its power and impressive size, it carries less weight than, for example, a donkey (maximum 50 kg) could do. In addition, the speed of its movement is also low. He walks only 3 km per hour. At the same time, the pack bull is more whimsical, requiring an abundance of grass and water along the entire path.
Elephant
Relates to the largest beasts of burden. Most often, in the role of a cargo ship, it can be seen in Indochina or India. He can carry a load of five hundred kilograms. However, elephants are extremely demanding on food, and due to their tendency to catch colds, they need constant careful care.
