The Donkey

Miniature donkeys, measuring less than 36" tall (9 hands) at maturity, are often referred to as Sicilian donkeys, and are native to Mediterranean islands of Sicily and Sardinia. Introduced into the United States about 50 years ago, they weigh between 200 and 350 pounds, have a gestation period of 11 1/2 to 13 months, and live to an average of 20 or 30 years old. Most are grey-dun with the characteristic "cross" and they also come in darker shades of grey, black, brown, sorrel, and spotted. They generally have light tan markings around the muzzle and eyes, though some are darker in these areas.

The size standards of American donkeys are as follows:

• Miniature - measures less than 36" tall (9 hands high) at maturity;
• Small Standard - height from 36" to 40" tall;
• Standard - measures 40.01" to 48" tall (10-12 hands high), covering the size range of most donkeys;
• Large Standard - from 48" tall to 56" tall (12-14 hands high), and are excellent for adult riding and work
• Mammoth Jack Stock - females over 54" tall (13.2 hands high) and males over 56" tall (14 hands high).

For more information, visit:

• Wild Donkeys (Asses)
• Bureau of Land Management
• Bureau of Land Management Wild Horse and Burro Internet Adoption
• The American Donkey and Mule Society
• www.donkeys.com
• American Gaited Mule Association
• American Mammoth Jackstock
• Bay Area Donkey & Mule Society of California
• Bureau of Land Management Wild Horse and Burrow home page
• Coat Color Genetics in American Donkeys
• Donkey Breed Society of UK
• International Miniature Donkey Registry
• International Society for the Protection of Mustangs and Burros
• KBR's Wrld of Wild Horses & Burros
• Kalara ASSociates Spotted and Spotless Donkeys
• Miniature Donkeys and Miniature Donkey Talk Magazine
• Mountain Ridge Ranch
• North American Longears' Breeders List -- the official internet directory for members of the American Donkey and Mule Society
• Sicilian Donkey Preservation Society
• Thor's Home Page
• Understanding Black Genetics in Donkeys
• Wild Horse and Burro Enthusiasts
• Wonderful Longeared World of Donkeys
• Yikes! Stripes!
• Bibliography

Published in two parts, August and September 1994 in NorthWest Breyer Horse Club Newsletter. (em)

	© 1994-2018 NW Breyer Horse Club & Refiner of Gold Creations Equinealities in place since 1997, Section in place 2001, Updated 2/19/2018		Enter city or US Zip