A mule is a cross between which two types of animals?

A mule is specifically a hybrid animal resulting from the mating of a jack (a male donkey) and a mare (a female horse). This combination is significant because it brings together the genetic traits of both species, which are distinct in many ways, such as size, temperament, and physical characteristics. The mule inherits certain desirable traits from both parents, often resulting in a strong, hardy animal that has the ability to perform well in various work and riding situations.

The mating of a stallion and a mare results in a horse, not a mule. Additionally, a filly refers to a young female horse, and a gelding is a castrated male horse, neither of which can contribute to the creation of a mule in this context. Therefore, the only correct combination, which produces a mule, is from a jack and a mare.