15 Fun Facts About Donkeys

1. A donkey is stronger than a horse of the same size
2. Donkeys can see all four of their feet at the same time
3. Donkeys vary hugely in size, from 26 inches to 68 inches tall
4. A donkey’s bray can carry up to 60 miles in the desert
5. Donkeys have incredibly efficient digestive systems, utilizing 95% of what they eat
6. Donkeys don’t like being in the rain for long periods as their fur is not waterproof
7. Donkeys have been used as working animals for at least 5000 years and they are still a lifeline to families in parts of Europe, Asia, Africa and South America
8. Healthy donkeys can live well into their 50s
9. A blind donkey will often bond with a seeing donkey who will act as their guide
10. Donkeys can be a calming influence on other animals
11. Donkeys are very clever and have a keen sense of curiosity
12. Donkeys are not stubborn but they can be reluctant to do anything that might be unsafe – they consider situations before deciding what to do
13. Donkeys are extremely nimble and can cross tricky terrain better than any other animal without becoming lame
14. Donkeys are very sociable and form strong bonds – you will often see pairs of best friends within a herd
15. Donkeys are different to horses in their physiology, communication, thinking and behavior – they do best with other donkeys as companions.

Donkeys and mules

Donkeys and mules are often said to be stubborn. This is not true. Donkeys and mules are very smart and cautious and like to be safe. They are apt to respond differently than horses when they are afraid.  Horses take flight when faced with a situation that they perceive as dangerous. Donkeys are likely to do just the opposite. They will often freeze instead of bolting or running away. A donkey or mule will often stop and think about what is scaring them, trying to figure out the safest way to handle the situation.

The Poitou Donkey

The Poitou donkey breed originates from the Poitou region of France, about 300 miles south-west of Paris, and has a thick, matted and tangled coat.

The adult male Poitou is called a baudet (pronounced ‘bo-day’) while the Poitou mare is called an ânesse.  By 1950 there was little demand for the Poitou, either in France or abroad. The mule could not compete with the agricultural machinery, and mule breeding stopped providing a living for the breeder. The effect on the Poitou was catastrophic. Some breeders sold or killed their herds. The Poitou donkey had become an endangered species.

Only 20 years ago the Poitou donkey faced extinction. Thanks to the resolve of local and national associations to meet this challenge, the support received from other regions in France and from abroad, and finally to the policy of la SABAUD and the dedication of its officers, this ancient breed has been saved.

American Mammoth Jackstock

Our Winston, rescued by Ark Watch Foundation, is an American Mammoth Jackstock. It’s one of the largest breeds of Donkeys in the world. Introduced in America by George Washington the breed got it’s start to fulfill our agricultural needs.

Because of their genteel nature and individual personalities Mammoth Jennets and Geldings make truly wonderful pets and are especially suited to being around children. Their protective natures make them useful as livestock guardians or foal and stable companions. Recreational trail riders are discovering Mammoth donkeys can make excellent mounts when trained. Others are discovering the enjoyment of how easily they adapt to driving. Across the country breed shows have been established to promote their versatility and beauty.

The Ass which is the correct term for donkey, burro or Jackstock has its own branch on the equine family tree. There are many differences between donkeys and their horse cousins. Their vocal qualities for instance, that base tone Aw-EE, Aw-EE bray is one of several forms of communication. The length of the ear on a Mammoth can reach almost two feet is an easily recognized characteristic trait. Their massive head blends into a strong neck. Lacking a true wither donkeys have a straighter back and a little different shape to the croup and rump, minus the heavy muscling found in a horse. The tail has a tasseled switch on the end and shorter hair. The manes are often clipped short as the hair is too stiff and upright to lie over.