These days, burros aren’t just Beatty’s unofficial mascot. They now outnumber people, digging through trash cans, causing traffic jams and getting up close and personal with gas station patrons en route to Tonopah.

It’s become a public safety issue in the town about 120 miles northwest of Las Vegas, according to the Bureau of Land Management, which conducted an emergency burro roundup Tuesday amid a federal government shutdown.

Nye County spokesman Arnold Knightly said it’s a common sight at a gas station parking lot for passersby to cozy up to the wild animals.

“They gather through trash, accepting snacks and posing for selfies,” Knightly said in an email. “I saw one guy wrap his arm around one like they were old pals, and another pet its nose like it was a golden retriever. They may b

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