7 Facts About Donkeys That Will Make You Respect This Animal (8 photos)

For centuries, people have held a prejudiced attitude toward donkeys. In almost all cultures familiar with this animal, the donkey is the embodiment of stubbornness and stupidity. While donkeys aren't the most obedient pets, they're far from stupid. They have many qualities that command respect.





Intelligence and a Sense of Humor



Due to the stubborn nature of some individuals, donkeys have been labeled as stupid animals. But studies have shown that donkeys can be considered the true intellectuals of the animal kingdom. They can independently find a way out of difficult situations that would be confusing for a horse or even a dog. Scientists have also discovered that donkeys have a unique sense of humor. Some can even troll their owners, driving them to nervous breakdowns.

Long-Livers





Large domestic animals don't live very long. Cows live about 20 years, horses 25-30. In comparison, donkeys seem like true long-livers. They live 45-50 years, and sometimes even longer. Lyusya, the donkey who starred in Leonid Gaidai's comedy "Kidnapping, Caucasian Style" and several other popular films, died of old age at 61. It's worth noting that donkeys, unlike other domestic animals, maintain high levels of performance even in old age.

Big-eared racehorse



Human-trained racehorses can reach speeds of 50-65 km/h over short distances. It would seem that donkeys, with their massive bodies and short legs, could hardly compete with them. But donkeys not only match horses in speed, but often surpass them. There are cases of donkeys reaching speeds of up to 75 km/h! However, due to the animal's body structure, a rider is unlikely to enjoy such a ride. A smooth ride is not a donkey's strong point.

Locator Ears



Donkeys' large ears aren't just part of their appearance. Mother Nature has endowed these animals with acute hearing. But that's not their only advantage. It turns out that donkeys can suppress extraneous and random sounds. They perceive only important auditory information that helps them survive, or interact with their fellows or their owner.

Endurance



Unsightly donkeys are true record-breakers in endurance. It is precisely because of this quality that they are so highly valued in deserts and mountainous areas. A donkey can carry loads that amount to two-thirds of its body weight. A donkey weighs between 80 and 400 kg. The animal can travel with a load over rough terrain for 10-12 hours without stopping for rest, food, or water. Therefore, in some harsh regions, it remains the primary mode of transport.

Heat Tolerance



Donkeys are southern animals and do not tolerate cold and dampness well. However, they thrive in high temperatures. Heat of 40-50 degrees Celsius is no problem for a donkey, provided it is healthy. This is why these animals, along with camels, are so sought after in Central Asia and North Africa.

Donkeys and Islam



In some countries, donkey meat is eaten. But not in countries where Islam is the dominant religion. The Quran (62:5) mentions the donkey as an animal that carries holy books on its back. Sunnahs prohibit the consumption of domestic donkeys, but permit the consumption of wild donkeys and horses.