Animal Fact Sheet
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 Sicilian
Donkey
(Domestic Donkey)
Equus
asinus
What does it look
like?
The Sicilian Donkey is a miniature breed of donkey. Their
coats come in a variety of colors, ranging between black, brown,
chestnut, white or spotted, with the most common color being gray. Sicilian
Donkeys are known for the cross-shaped marking along their back. Legend
says that Mary and Joseph rode a Sicilian Donkey the night Jesus
was born and that marking is because of him.
- 28 to 38 inches tall at the withers (shoulders)
- Weigh between 250 to 450 pounds
- Life span: 40 to 50 years
- Originated from Egypt
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What are some behaviors?
Donkeys are very social animals and often need the company of other
donkeys or animals. Contrary to popular belief, donkeys
are actually intelligent animals, but can often be stubborn. The
Sicilian Donkey is known for its sweet, affectionate disposition. They
were domesticated long before the horse. Throughout history
donkeys were used for transportation, to pull wagons, and as pack
animals. Donkeys can also be helpful for protecting sheep
from wild dogs, and are often used as rehabilitation animals for
the disabled. The Donkey quickly became popular because of
its kind heartedness, its cautiousness, and bravery.
What about offspring?
Sicilian Miniature Donkey reproduction occurs primarily during
late spring to early fall. Puberty is usually attained around
the age of 1 or 2. When a jenny (or breeding female) reaches
estrous, the cycle will last 23 to 30 days. Gestation will
last for about 11 months and jennets can produce foals through
their entire lifetime.
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What
does it eat?
- Hay, grass, oats and grain
- Grazes from dawn until late morning and then again in late
afternoon
Is it threatened
or endangered?
The Sicilian Donkey is listed as a WATCH animal under the conservancy
of America Livestock Breeds. Meaning there are less than
2,500 in North America and an estimated less than 10,000 global
population.
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