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

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.