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Scientific Name: Perissodactyla Equidae Equus asinus
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS:
Donkey is a nickname for the ass, used in all parts of the world. The small gray donkey of northern Africa was the progenitor of the Spanish burro, which accompanied the conquistadors to Mexico and South America, and later played such an important role in the settlement of the West.

Donkeys are slower in their movements than horses and are still used as beasts of burden, especially in areas where horses do not thrive or where poverty prevents their purchase.
DISTRIBUTION and HABITAT:
The true wild ass is found only in northern Africa. They have been domesticated for centuries, and it is generally accepted that asses, or donkeys, were domesticated on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea. From there they found their way east and later, to all parts of the world. The Donkey is essentially a southern animal partial to hot and dry climates
BEHAVIOR:
Donkeys are complex creatures, capable of many moods. They can be friendly, affectionate, independent, patient, and even sad, and there is no questioning their intelligence. But when a donkey would rather not do something, it can be the laziest and most stubborn creature in the world.

Like horses and ponies, donkeys are capable of biting and kicking with both hind legs. However, such behavior is unlikely from any animal accustomed to children unless there is a great deal of provocation.

Donkeys are hardy animals and are remarkably resistant to disease. Hoof care is essential to the well being of these animals. When kept on soft ground the hooves grow rapidly and soon become extra long. This puts great pressure on the pasterns as the animals' weight is no longer directly over its hooves. A farrier or veterinarian should be consulted.

In the wild, donkeys travel in herds up to 100 in number, usually led by a male. Although they are gregarious by nature, the herd breaks up at foaling time. Donkeys are most active in the evening, but also move about during the day and at night. When threatened, their defense is to run or bite.
DIET:
As herbivores, donkeys feed mainly on grass, which includes some browsing. In the zoo they are fed grass, hay, zoo ration, trace minerals, and treats such as carrots and apples.
REPRODUCTION and GROWTH:
The gestation period for donkeys is approximately 12 months. There is usually just one foal, which is able to stand up within minutes after birth. The foal remains with its mother for about five months. Females achieve puberty at one year. The donkey's life span is 25 to 30 years.

Most donkeys are the result of so much cross-breeding that it is impossible to define their race with any precision.
GENERAL INFORMATION:
Donkey and Burro are nicknames for ass.

The male donkey is called jack or jackass.

The female donkey is called the jenny.

A mule is the offspring of a jackass (male donkey) and a mare (female horse).

A hinny is the offspring of a stallion (male horse) and a jenny (female donkey).

Mules and hinnies are usually sterile.