The History of the Miniature Donkey

Miniature donkeys originated in the Mediterranean area of Northern Africa in ancient times and more recently from the Islands of Sicily and Sardinia off the west coast of Italy. Over time the distinctions between the two island populations blurred and they are now considered one breed properly called Miniature Mediterranean Donkeys. They are simply referred to as Miniature Donkeys in North America.

Purebred Miniature Donkeys in the Mediterranean area are rapidly disappearing, as the small donkeys are being mixed with larger breeds. For this reason, the Donkeys in North America have global genetic value. Fortunately, numbers in the U.S. and Canada are strong and are increasing since the first Donkeys arrived in the early 1900's. Approximately 2,179 animals were registered in 1995 and the current population is estimated between 17,000 and 20,000 in the U.S.

The Miniature Donkey is a compact, well-proportioned animal with a sweet, sociable disposition. At maturity (3 years), it is able to pull a cart or carry a pack as it did in its native Sicily and Sardinia.

How Did the Miniature Donkey Arrive in the States?

In 1929, Robert Green, a stockbroker on Wall Street imported 6 jenneys and a jack to the US. He had heard about the wonderful little animals during a trip to Europe, and without even seeing the donkeys he purchased and arranged their shipping through an agent in Paris. Their adorable nature lead to other enthusiasts importing and breeding Miniature Donkeys. Over the next 70 years the numbers were to steadily grow.

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."