num_pages: 80
description: Did you know that the Bourbonnais Donkey drinks four gallons of water a day? Discover interesting facts about 24 breeds of mules and donkeys, including their appearance, history and breeding, and uses in agriculture and tourism. From the critically endangered Abyssinian to the speedy Onager, who can run at 40 MPH, this fascinating guide will turn both young and old into a donkey and mule enthusiast. This is the definitive beginner's guide to these noble and often underappreciated animals. With clear, concise descriptions and accompanying color photographs, Jack Byard's book will help you to identify and differentiate the many breeds of asses from Abyssinians and Andalusians to Zedonks or Zonkeys and Zamorano Leones. It will provide you with fascinating facts about all of these varieties. And if you're curious about which world-famous political figure is credited with developing the American Mammoth, the most common breed of donkey in the United States, you can find out within! Donkeys have been domesticated and relied upon by people all over the globe. You will discover the surprising history of humanity's relationship with these hardworking creatures, including their essential roles in agriculture, transportation, war, and even their use for production of milk! It is important for us all to understand how much the position and value of donkeys and mules has been altered by mechanization, especially in relation to farming and other physical labor. Byard's compassionate account explains how and why some of these animals, which were previously so integral to society, have sadly become endangered. But they remain highly intelligent and have a very strong instinct for self-preservation. Fortunately, there are people who have championed their cause. You will learn about the various conservation measures taken to protect them and how their function has adapted in the 21st century, encompassing diverse industries, such as tourism and animal-assisted therapy. Here, young and old readers alike will find a new and deep appreciation of mules and donkeys. Hopefully they will be moved to support conservation efforts for all the different breeds of these animals in the same way that donkeys and mules have dependably supported humanity for so long!
language: English
title: Know Your Donkeys & Mules
publisher: Fox Chapel Publishing