3:00 snapshot #1225, Daily Zoo Animal #35: Poitou Donkeys

[urbpan]

The Poitou donkey is a rare breed of domestic ass (Equus asinus). Originating in France, the Poitou is notable for its large size and shaggy coat, which--left unbrushed--will become "corded," with what we would call dreadlocks in human hair. The breed was maintained as a sire for mules, until mules became obsolete; there are around 400 individuals of this breed left in the world. These two gelded males are part of the Children's Zoo, and are honored guests at the zoo's annual Bastille Day celebration.

Comments

[asakiyume.livejournal.com]

What an interesting coincidence--another LJ friend of mine just posted a drawing of a Poitou donkey. I'd never heard of them before she did.

[ssorca19.livejournal.com]

weird, i was just thinking of these guys today. We were having a convo at work about mini animals (horses, cows, donkeys) and I commented that I'd rather have a GIANT donkey than a mini one. These guys are just too cute- I love their shag!

[therealocelot.livejournal.com]

Wow, those are adorable.

[mnfaure.livejournal.com]

here via asakiyume.

Poitous for the win! I didn't know there were so few left. When my husband and I return to France (currently living abroad), we hope to buy a farm. I wonder if we can maybe get a Poitou or two...