What is a Miniature Donkey?

Miniature donkeys are much smaller than regular donkeys. They are originally from the Italian island of Sicily, but they have been in the United States since the 1920s.

Miniature donkeys are usually only 32″ to 36″ high. They are measured from their withers, which is the ridge between the shoulder blades, to the ground. They weigh between 200 and 350 pounds. Ernest, however, is a very tiny miniature donkey. He is only 29″ tall!

Miniature donkeys are very loving and friendly animals. They can live for 30 years or more. Compared with many other animals, that’s a very long life!

Did you know?
• Male donkeys are called jacks
• Female donkeys are called jennies or jennets
• Baby donkeys are called foals