donkeys

There are more than 40 million donkeys in the world, mostly in underdeveloped countries, where they are used principally as draught or pack animals. While working donkeys are often associated with those living at or below subsistence, small numbers of donkeys or asses are kept for breeding or as pets in developed countries. Learn 43 interesting facts about donkeys, the loyal and intelligent animals that have been around since prehistoric times. Find out the difference between a donkey, a burro and an ass, how they are measured, what they can do for work, and more. Learn about the size, habitat, diet, reproduction and taxonomy of donkeys, also called burros and asses, the members of the Equidae family that include horses and zebras. Find out how donkeys are social, grazing animals that can breed with other species and produce hybrids. donkey, ( Equus asinus ), domestic ass belonging to the horse family, Equidae, and descended from the African wild ass ( Equus africanus ). It is known to have been used as a beast of burden since 4000 bce. The average donkey stands 101.6 cm (40 inches) at the shoulder and weighs about 250 kg (551 pounds), but different breeds vary greatly. Learn about the history, physical, mental and emotional differences of donkeys from horses, and the common terms and colours of donkeys. Find out how donkeys are used for various purposes today and how to care for them. Learn about the origin, domestication, and traits of donkeys, the domesticated hoofed mammals of the horse family. Find out how donkeys are related to horses, zebras, and other perissodactyls, and what makes them useful for various purposes. Discover the top ten donkey facts and more with Active Wild. Donkey Facts. Donkeys are intelligent creatures with exceptional memories. Donkeys are stronger than horses of the same size. In open empty spaces, like a desert, the braying of donkeys can be heard from around 60 miles away. Contrary to popular belief, donkeys are intelligent creatures with exceptional memories. As long as a donkey has good shelter and is allowed to grow its winter coat, it should be able to tolerate cold temperatures as low as 14 degrees. It’s important to understand that donkeys are not naturally cold weather animals, though. Be sure to provide shelter that will keep snow, sleet and rain out. Shiny black, uneven black, bay black, chestnut bay. Temperament: Calm, kind. Purpose: Riding, transport, pack. The Pyrenean donkey is incredibly versatile, coming from Southwestern France. It is also referred to as the “Gascon” donkey—perfectly sized for the terrain and work needs of the region. Donkey Behavior. Donkeys are extremely docile and compliant . Almost all donkeys are used to carrying or pulling heavy loads, and doing a good job at doing it, despite normally having to do it in rough conditions or without any rest. They’re tough animals that can bear a lifestyle of work conditions that would be impossible for other animals. Donkeys exhibit a range of behaviors that reflect their intelligence and adaptability. They are known for their patient, steadfast, and hardworking nature. Contrary to popular belief, donkeys are not stubborn but rather cautious, assessing situations before acting. Donkeys are social animals and thrive in the company of other donkeys or animals. Nast’s donkeys fare no better; a typical cartoon from 1879 shows the stubborn beast dangling by the tail, about to fall into an abyss of “financial chaos.” More often than not, in fact, his ... Consider all the possible factors that can affect the behavior of your donkey, such as environment, relations with other animals, past experiences, health, etc. Donkeys show affection only if they feel safe. And the feeling of safety depends on many factors. 1. Environment Affects Donkey’s Feelings of Security.