The donkey or ass is a domesticated equine. It derives from the African wild ass, Equus africanus, and may be classified either as a subspecies thereof, Equus africanus asinus, or as a separate species, Equus asinus. [1]: 1 It was domesticated in Africa some 5000–7000 years ago, [1]: 2 [2]: 3715 [3] and has been used mainly as a working animal since that time.

What's a donkey? A donkey is a domestic member of the horse family. Today's domestic donkey is a descendant of the African wild ass, and these hard workers have been hauling goods since 4000 B.C.E., according to Encyclopedia Britannica. Donkeys are related to horses and zebras, although they're often stockier, stronger and have much different ...

Jan 9, 2025 · Donkey, domestic ass belonging to the horse family and descended from the African wild ass. Employed as a beast of burden since 4000 BCE, donkeys are sure-footed and capable of carrying heavy loads over rough terrain.

Feb 4, 2022 · Learn about the origins of donkey breeds from the Donkey Sanctuary in the U.K., and meet the smallest of these breeds — miniature donkeys — at the website of Oklahoma State University's ...

May 27, 2024 · Standard Donkey: Interestingly enough, the standard donkey is known to fight off predators and guard other animals. Miniature Donkey: Miniature donkeys are good companion animals. They can live over 35 years old and their short height makes them easy to …

Dec 8, 2023 · A donkey is a domesticated hoofed mammal of the horse family (Equidae) descended from the African wild ass. Today, the donkey is considered to be either a subspecies of the African wild ass, and given the scientific name Equus africanus asinus , or a separate species, with the scientific name Equus asinus .

A donkey or ass (Equus africanus asinus) is a mammal of the Equidae family. [1] The wild ancestor of the donkey is the African wild ass, E. africanus. The donkey has been used as a working animal for at least 5000 years. There are a number of other wild asses in different parts of the world. The name 'donkey' is correct for the domesticated animal.

Everything you should know about the Donkey. The Donkey is a stout animal that looks similar to a horse. They are often used as pack animals.

Basic facts about Donkey: lifespan, distribution and habitat map, lifestyle and social behavior, mating habits, diet and nutrition, population size and status.

Apr 4, 2023 · The donkey (Equus asinus) is a member of the Equidae family and shares a close relationship with horses and zebras. Donkeys and horses have distinctive features, such as prominent ears, compact bodies, and expressive eyes.