Donkey Breeds

Wild Breeds

The African Wild Donkey
These donkeys are primarily found in the arid zones of the Horn of Africa. Generally, two subspecies are distinguished: the Nubian and the Somali.
In Roman antiquity, crossbreeding between domestic donkeys that had returned to the wild and the wild donkey in Algeria nearly caused the disappearance of this wild animal. Similarly, the Nubian and Eastern Sudan wild donkey is endangered. It is estimated that about 2,000 of these animals survive in Ethiopia and around 250 in Somalia, in extremely dry and rocky areas. Competition with domestic animals for scarce grazing limits their survival.

The Asian Wild Donkey
It is more commonly called the “hemione.” This name comes from the ancient Greek (hêmonios) meaning “half-donkey.” Its origins are debated, but today it is considered closer to donkeys than horses.

Domestic Breeds

The African Breed
Possibly originating from Egypt, this breed has spread worldwide due to its aptitude for work. It stands between 1 m and 1.30 m tall and is most often gray with a dorsal stripe (called the “crucial band”), but other colors exist, notably white.

Domestic Breeds
Currently, France officially recognizes seven donkey breeds by the National Stud Administration:

• The Poitou Donkey, which until 1994 was the only recognized breed
• The Berry Donkey
• The Grey Provence Donkey
• The Pyrenean Donkey
• The Cotentin Donkey
• The Normandy Donkey
• The Bourbonnais Donkey
• The Corsican Donkey