The donkey has built the world and is the most unsung animal for his efforts.
The wealth of the Egyptians was due to the precious metals carried from Africa by donkeys.
Donkeys were used to carry silk along the ‘Silk Road’ from the Pacific Ocean to the Mediterranean in return for trade goods.
In Greece donkeys were used for working on the narrow paths between vines and their work in vineyards spread as far as Spain.
The Roman Army moved donkeys into Northern Europe using them in agriculture, vineyards and as pack animals.
Donkeys came to England with the Roman invasion of Britain in 43CE.
Donkeys are often a lifeline to families in many regions of the world. They help with water and wood fuel collection, land cultivation and transportation of produce to market.
Donkeys are used as guard animals for cattle, sheep and goats since they have a natural aversion to canines and will keep them away from a flock.
Donkeys are often fielded with horses due to the perceived calming effect they have on nervous horses. If a donkey is introduced to a mare and foal, the foal will often turn to the donkey for support after it has left its mother.
Donkeys were brought to Turks and Caicos to pull salt carts and turn pumps in the saltworks. Now they roam free on the island.
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