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Scientific classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Mammalia
Order: Perissodactyla
Family: Equidae
Genus: Equus
Subgenus: Asinus
Species: E. asinus
Binomial name
Equus asinus
Linnaeus, 1758
Donkey, three weeks old

A donkey or ass (Equus asinus) is a mammal of the Equidae family. There are a number of wild asses in different parts of the world; the name 'donkey' is correct for the domesticated animal.



Description[change | change source]

Donkeys, zebras and mules all look different from the common horses. One difference is the ears.[1] Donkeys ears are much longer than a horse's. The necks are straighter and the croup and rump are also a different shape.[1] The back is straighter.


Hoof shapes are different as well, donkey hooves are smaller and rounder, with more upright pasterns. The legs should have good bone, but lots of donkeys have long thin legs with tiny feet. Larger donkeys may appear opposite, with big, heavy legs and large round feet.[1] Good legs and feet are very important for mules that are trying to find a mate. This is because a good foot is more liked than a large body on small legs and feet.[1]

The donkey's voice is a very raspy kind, and it makes the "Aw-ee aw-ee" noise. Although most people think donkeys are a gray color, sometimes they can have stripes, dark ear marks, as well as the "Light Points".[1] This means that it has a white muzzle and white rings around its eyes, and a white belly and inner leg.

Colors of the donkey may be from gray to brown. Or sometimes they can be black, both red and gray, creamy white, or a unique Spotted pattern.[1] Donkeys come in lots of different sizes. Some, like the rare French donkey, has huge heads and ears, and very thick, shaggy curled black coat.[1]

Caring for donkeys[change | change source]


References[change | change source]