Wild burro ‘Cupid’ recovering after arrow punctured lung amid Moreno Valley attacks
Cupid, a 2-year-old wild burro near Moreno Valley, underwent emergency surgery after a blue arrow punctured her right lung; she is stable. This is the latest in at least six bow-and-arrow attacks in inland Southern California, prompting a reward.
- Victim: Cupid, a 2-year-old female burro found with a blue arrow in her right shoulder.
- Injury & care: The arrow punctured her right lung; surgeons removed the arrowhead in emergency surgery and she is stable and standing.
- Pattern & concern: At least six bow-and-arrow attacks since mid‑June 2025; projectiles have included broadhead hunting arrows.
- Investigation & reward: Riverside County Department of Animal Services is investigating; DonkeyLand is offering a $24,000 reward for information leading to arrest and conviction.
What happened to Cupid
Cupid was seen in foothills near Moreno Valley with a blue arrow lodged in her right shoulder. Volunteers and animal control tracked and safely tranquilized her for extraction from difficult terrain. Veterinary exam found the arrow had passed through muscle and punctured her right lung; surgeons removed the arrowhead and repaired internal damage in emergency surgery. As of the latest update, Cupid is alert, standing, and considered to be making a promising recovery. (Source: ABC News)
Series of Moreno Valley burro attacks
Local authorities and rescue groups say the Cupid incident fits a pattern that began the weekend of June 14, 2025. The first documented case involved a juvenile burro shot in the side near the same area where Cupid was later found. At least five more attacks followed through summer and fall, including very young burros as small as 2 to 4 months old. Arrows recovered have often included broadhead tips — the kind used for hunting — raising concerns the incidents are deliberate. (Source: ABC News)
Who is involved in the rescue and investigation
Riverside County animal control and the sheriff’s department assisted in capturing and transporting Cupid for care. Local nonprofits, including DonkeyLand and other rescue organizations, mobilized volunteers and resources. DonkeyLand announced a $24,000 reward for information that leads to identification, arrest and conviction of the person or people responsible. Authorities ask anyone with tips, images, video, or knowledge of suspicious activity near burro herds to contact Riverside County Department of Animal Services. (Source: ABC News)
DonkeyLand sanctuary rescue plans
DonkeyLand, a 2,000-acre sanctuary and wildlife preserve, has offered custody of Cupid once she is fully healed. The sanctuary rehabilitates injured, orphaned or at‑risk burros and says the reward and publicity aim to deter future attacks and fund rescue operations. DonkeyLand’s role is central to community rescue efforts and longer-term protection plans for burro herds near suburban and semirural neighborhoods. (Source: ABC News)
Wild burros: history and local value
Wild burros have been part of Southern California for decades, often tied to Gold Rush and early ranching history. In Moreno Valley they have unofficial mascot status and help graze dry brush that can reduce wildfire fuel. Federal protections cover some burro populations, reflecting their symbolic and ecological value. While they can sometimes be a nuisance—eating garden plants or wandering onto roads—many residents report tolerance or affection for the animals. (Source: ABC News)
Community reaction and safety concerns
The attacks have alarmed residents and animal advocates. Rescue groups note the use of broadhead arrows suggests the assaults were planned to seriously harm or kill the animals. Volunteers and caretakers have increased patrols and urge neighbors to report suspicious activity immediately.
Authorities warn: do not approach injured wild burros; they may panic and injure themselves or others. Call animal control or a designated rescue group instead.
(Source: ABC News)
Context from nearby counties
Neighboring San Bernardino County has managed growing burro numbers by working with groups like Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue to capture and relocate burros humanely, especially after vehicle collisions or injuries. The recent attacks renew discussion on humane management and public safety where burros overlap with roads and housing. (Source: ABC News)
Investigation status and needed tips
Riverside County Department of Animal Services continues to investigate. Officials request any video footage, photos, or first‑hand accounts that might identify those responsible. DonkeyLand’s $24,000 reward remains active to incentivize tips that could lead to arrests and convictions. Anyone with information is asked to contact Riverside County animal services or local law enforcement. (Source: ABC News)
Implications for the Imperial Valley
Economic: News of repeated attacks can affect tourism and outdoor recreation across Southern California, including the Imperial Valley, potentially reducing weekend visitors and impacting small businesses that rely on outdoor recreation.
Political & social: The incidents may prompt reviews of animal protection policies and enforcement resources. Communities tied to ranching and outdoor tradition may rally behind sanctuaries and advocate for community-watch programs to protect both animals and people.
Practical: Local governments and groups can use this episode to refine response plans—clear reporting instructions, coordinated patrols with animal control, public-awareness outreach about not approaching wild burros, and partnerships with sanctuaries like DonkeyLand for rescue support.
Sources and further reading
If you have information about any of the attacks, Riverside County Department of Animal Services and DonkeyLand ask that you come forward to assist the investigation. Tips, photos, or video may be the key to identifying those responsible and ensuring justice for the burro herds.
