Intro
The Arenberg-Nordkirchener is dangerously close to becoming extinct & are listed as critically endangered, with their population numbers in the teens.
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Dun tag
Anglo-Luso Horse
Intro
The Anglo-Luso comes from Portugal & began with the crossing of local Lusitano mares with English Thoroughbred stallions. Although many Portuguese people objected to the cross-breeding, considering it a pollution to their purebred animals.
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Andravida Horse
Intro
Also called the Eleia, Ilia, or Greek, the Andravida is a rare & mysterious light draft breed found in the region of Ilia, Greece.
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Andalusian Horse
American Miniature Mediterranean Donkey
Intro
This is the smallest of the donkey breeds and they are known for their incredible strength and willing attitude.
Origins
The American Miniature Mediterranean Donkeys originated in southern Europe on the small islands of Sardinia & Sicily. In the 18th century they were primarily used indoors for grinding grain and as pack animals for mountain shepherds.
The breed was introduced to the US in 1929 when the first imports were received by Robert Green on his stud farm in New Jersey.
“Miniature Donkeys possess the affectionate nature of a Newfoundland, the resignation of a cow, the durability of a mule, the courage of a tiger, and the intellectual capability only slightly inferior to man’s.” – Robert Green
Today these tiny animals are almost extinct in their native lands, luckily they have become popular pets in the states where their numbers continue to grow.
Features
Under 36″ high
Physique
Compact & well proportioned
Traditional Colors
Grey dun w/chocolate highlights is most commonly found
black | sorrel | pinto | creme
Temperament
Kind & easy going
Affectionate & intelligent
Use
Mainly pets & show animals
Helpful Links
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National Miniature Donkey Association
More Images
Video
African Wild Ass
Image from Roni G
Intro
A wild member of the horse family Equidae, the African Wild Ass (Equus africanus) is thought to be the ancient ancestor of the domesticated donkey often seen today.
Image from Martynf65
Origins
This breed is native to dry areas of northeastern Africa such as Eritrea, Ethiopia and Somalia. They have a tough digestive system which efficiently extracts moisture from their diet of vegetation, this allows them to go a long time between watering.
These animals generally live in small family groups instead of herds due mainly to the sparse vegetation in their habitat. They are very loud and can communicate verbally with other asses up to 2 miles away.
Today conservation efforts are being made because there are only a few hundred left in the wild. This is a result of a combination of factors. Interbreeding with domesticated stock has compromised the purity of their ancient bloodlines.
They are also forced to compete with domestic livestock and agricultural needs for the limited resources of the area. Not to mention they are traditionally hunted for food and medicine in both Ethiopia and Somalia.
They are legally protected in most of the countries where they are found, however these laws are next to impossible to enforce.
Features
Resilient animals that have thrived for thousands of years in an unforgiving climate
Physique
Typical donkey with stocky body
Ears are large to help cool them and give them keen hearing
Mane is stiff and upright and tipped with black
Tail is short and ends in a black brush
Hooves are slender and close to the same diameter as the legs
Traditional Colors
Dun displaying the mealy / pangare gene and primitive markings
Temperament
That of a wild animal
Image from Antelopes
Helpful Links
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Ultimate Guide to the African Wild Ass
African Wild Ass Archive
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