Fun Donkey Facts - Facts About Donkeys
Donkeys are the original beasts of burden and for thousands of years they have been helping mankind. They are the preferred mode of transportation in many countries and on trekking trips. Donkeys are terrain animals and are very intelligent animals despite what some people think.
A donkey is actually stronger than a horse the same size. They can live to be over 50 years old. Most people don t realise that donkeys have an incredible memory. They can recognise donkeys and areas they have been before, even if it was years ago. Donkeys are very curious animals and they don t startle easily like horses do.
Donkeys have much larger ears than horses and their ears help to keep them cool. In the desert a donkey can hear the call of another donkey up to 60 miles away. They do not like rain. If they are left out in the rain for long periods it can make them ill because their fur is not waterproof.
Donkeys are herd animals. They don t like to live alone and a single donkey can live happily with goats. In a herd the strongest donkey is the leader. In the wild the leader of the herd will stay behind to ward off an attack which allows the other donkeys to escape safely. The donkeys that are in a herd will groom each other like chimps and monkeys do.
Donkeys have a highly developed sense of self preservation and because of this they have a reputation for being stubborn. If a donkey thinks doing something is contrary to its best interest or safety they will not do it. It is almost impossible to force or frighten a donkey into doing something he doesn t want to do.
Once a donkey trusts you and knows you will keep them from harm they are willing to listen and follow your commands. To train a donkey you have to show them by words and actions. If there is a trust and a bond the donkey will learn what you want them to do.
Donkeys make wonderful pets and are very loyal. You just have to show them kindness and patience.
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