The Animals
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The Donkey
A Donkey is a type of ass, however they are not the same as a horse or a mule.
One of the most noticeable differences between a donkey and a horse are their ears. A donkey’s ears are much longer in proportion to their size. The mane is short and upright and the donkey’s tail is very coarse and similar to a cow's, mostly covered with short body hair, and ending in a tasselled switch.
Although many donkeys are the familiar grey-dun colour, there are many other coat shades including shades of grey to brown, black, variants of sorrel, blue-eyed Ivory and some spotted varieties. Donkeys have a dark stripe down their back and over their shoulders.
A female donkey is called a Jennet (or Jenny). A male donkey is called a Jack.
Donkeys come in a variety of sizes from the Miniature Mediterranean (under 36 inches, 90 centimetres) to the elegant Mammoth Jackstock (14 hands and over). The rare French Poitou donkey, characterized by its huge head and ears, and very thick, shaggy, curled black coat, can stand 14 to 15 hands high.
Donkeys can make wonderful guard animals. An experienced older jennet (female donkey) will often be used as a herd guardian. If you run a donkey with sheep, cattle or goats they will protect them from predators, especially canine attacks. Dogs and donkeys usually don't mix, although a donkey can be trained to leave the dog alone.
