Sicilian donkeys

Equus asinus

Animal Class

Mammal, Equidae
Habitat

They have adapted to living in a wide range of habitats, all over the world.
Diet

Herbivore that eats grasses and hay. They are hindgut fermenters, like horses.

Introduction

Sicilian donkeys are a descendant of the African wild Ass (Equus africanus) and have been selectively bred for strength and hardiness, as well as their small size.

Their strength has been used to pull loads, helping farmers with ploughing fields and carrying loads before modern day machinery. The Sicilian donkeys small size means that they are easy to care for and so they have been a popular addition to farms, throughout the ages,

They have long ears, a bushy tipped tail and are different to other donkeys due to their small size. They are quite docile and have been known to be quite intelligent. Male donkeys are known as Jacks while females are known as Jennys.

SIZE: Approximately 90cm to the shoulder.
Origin & preferred habitat

The Sicilian Donkey originated from the islands of Sardinia and Sicily, off the coast of Italy. They like open grasslands where they can graze on grasses and plants. They have adapted to living in a wide range of habitats, all over the world.
Fun Facts

Pregnancy occurs from 11 to 13 months after which the female will usually give birth to 1 foal.