Dun tag

American Miniature Mediterranean Donkey

American Miniature Mediterranean Donkey

Image from Clovercrest

Intro

This is the smallest of the donkey breeds and they are known for their incredible strength and willing attitude.

American Miniature Mediterranean Donkey

Image from Clovercrest

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

American Miniature Mediterranean Donkey

Image from Clovercrest

Use

Mainly pets & show animals

Helpful Links

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Miniature Donkey Association
National Miniature Donkey Association

Where to Buy

Clovercrest
Carinya Park
Joy Miniature Donkeys
Best Friends Farm

American Miniature Mediterranean Donkey Studs

Clovercrest Miniature Donkey Stud
Carinya Park Stud

Video

Do you have images or know more about the American Miniature Mediterranean Donkey? I’d love help completing this page, please contact me to get involved.

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African Wild Ass

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.

African Wild Ass

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

African Wild Ass

Image from Antelopes

Helpful Links

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Ultimate Guide to the African Wild Ass
African Wild Ass Archive

Do you have images or know more about the African Wild Ass? I’d love help completing this page, please contact me to get involved.

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