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Miniature
Mediterranean Donkey
The
Miniature Mediterranean Donkey
has been enjoyed in the Mediterranean
for thousands of years. In the
native lands of Sicily and Sardnia,
these donkeys are used as transport
and draft. Normally these donkeys
were used to power the grind wheel
and transport water. Sadly, the
donkeys are all but extinct on
their native islands.
 The
donkeys were first brought to
the United States in the 1920's
by Mr. Robert Green, a stockbroker
of New York.
Mr. Green is quoted as saying,
"Miniature Donkeys possess
the affectionate nature of a Newfoundland,
the resignation of a cow, the
durability of a mule, the courage
of a tiger, and the intellectual
capability only slightly inferior
to man's."
They
are used for pets, companions,
draft, and for children to ride.
Some of the donkeys are even used
for dairy as donkey milk is believed
to contain medicinal properties.
The
donkeys can be a wide assortment
of colors from the standard grey
to reds and blacks. The donkeys
can be with or without spots.
Most donkeys will sport a cross
on their back.
References
Dohner, Janet Vorwald. 2001.
The Encyclopedia of Historic and
Endangered Livestock and Poultry
Breeds. Yale University Press.
New Haven and London.
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