I am asked all the time, "what is the difference between a burro and a donkey?" Semantics. They're the same animal,
Equus asinus. The domesticated version is called a donkey, and the feral version that roams the west is called a
burro – the Spanish word for ass. George and Alan are burros because they roamed the western range prior to their capture through the Bureau of Land Management's Wild Horse and Burro program; Ellsworth and Bernard are donkeys because they were bred and born in captivity. Bottom line, they're the smartest, gentlest creatures on four legs...not that I'm biased or anything.
I love the gorgeous stripes on George's legs. These markings are believed to trace back to the African ass.
You horse owners are familiar with the chestnuts on your horse's legs – burros and donkeys have chestnuts, too, but they're delicate and paper thin. If you collected a bunch of the flaked-off layers and taped them together, you'd have a very interesting piece of stationery. I might have to try it.
So except for their names, there really isn't much of a difference between a burro and a donkey. An ass by any other name would be as sweet.
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23 comments:
I'm glad for the explanation as I wondering what the difference was. Such sweet guys! I see Deets is coming to be part of the action!!
Congratulations. I learn something new every day and you gave me that something for today.
Sweet indeed!
Very interesting explanation, Linda! They look very sweet indeed. And btw I love the word burro.
I've come to enjoy your critters. Whatever they are called.
LOVE the frames! Can I get those online somewhere?
Thanks for the explanation - I have been wondering if I was using the correct terminology! You're right though, whatever you call them, they're pretty cute!
Glad you set me straight. I also was wondering if there was a difference. I'm so glad that you rescued these rascals. Sweet, indeed!
I feel much better now. I called them donkey's in one of my comments and hoped I had not offended them!!! Thanks for the education!!! Bless those sweet little ass's!!!
Terry from KC
Great informative post, thanks! Instead of stationary, maybe a small lamp shade? LOL!!
Oh how I love Deets.
I couldn't agree with you more about them being the smartest, gentlest creatures on four legs!
That is interesting about their chestnuts. I hear a lot about their hooves being different than a horses but never covered chestnuts.
Thank you for clarifying that. Love that Deets, too, coming to make sure everything's in order.
Really enjoy your blogs. Up until a few years ago I was a true blue 'horse' person. Nothing better than a horse! But along came our first donkey rescue and all I can say is WOW!!! We now have 7 wonderful Longears sharing our life. They are so intelligent, loving,comical,intuitive, etc... Wish more people would understand how amzing they are.
Thanks for the explanation. They are mighty sweet for a couple of asses. I've got to get my credit card and order that calendar later today. I keep forgetting.
I didn't know either. George and Alan seem quite friendly for wild guys. I'm so glad they have such a loving home where they can roam free. I would just love to give them a big hug!!!
OK -- so my boy, Pistol Pete is a donkey. Uh, huh. But he lived a miserable life, being dropped off in an old man's pasture in the middle of the night because his people didn't want him anymore. And then we adopted him.
So, I'd say he's a hybrid. A "donk-o" or a "bur-key" or somethin' like that.
Yeah, Deets doesn't let too much go on without him!
I have enjoyed your blog and absolutely loved your photos and commentary. Well, I have been blessed with 2 gorgeous Jenny's since July,, and until they came on our farm, I just did not realize how special and lovable they are. I have horses, which I love, but these gals are just something special. I smile ear to ear when I speak of them!!! Thanks for the great blog,, and your commentary on the animals is priceless!!!
I have had horses forever, and did not know that!
Sigh...I so wish I could have a couple of these wonderful critters. I will have to be content with the George and Alan calendar for awhile.
Oh I love those stripes too. That first shot is my favorite though.
So does this mean that George and Alan have transformed from Burros to Donkies? Now that they are living such a lovely, luxurious life with you? (Lucky boys)
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