Miniature Donkey
Equus asinus domestic miniature
Distribution:
Mediterranean islands of Sicily and Sardinia. Introduced populations worldwide.
Habitat:
Plains, grasslands, farmlands.
Diet:
Grass and hay
Gestation:
360 days, one foal born
Longevity:
25 - 30 years in both the wild and captivity
Predators:
Mostly domestic, so prey to large predators (lions, large canines, etc)
Conservation Status:
Not Evaluated
General:
Unlike many other miniature breeds, the miniature donkey is not a bred-down version of a larger donkey. Their small size is natural!
Donkeys communicate by braying, a sound also known as a ""hee-haw."" Each donkey has its own style of braying, which can range from barely being audible to a ""thunderous bray.""
They form close attachments to their owners and to other donkeys. Donkeys are herd animals and do not respond well to isolation. Because of their laid-back personalities, they make wonderful companions for children, people with disabilities, and elderly people.
Fun fact: Donkeys are known to have an amazingly relaxing effect on other animals, due to which they are commonly used as companions for weaned foals. They also often paired with alarmed, injured, or recovering animals, soothing them and helping reduce stress.
At Hamilton Zoo:
You can find our girls on the way to the tigers from the oasis lawn, they share their home with two miniature ponies.
Females:
Sammy Star - 9/5/17
Miss Fisher - 25/03/16