The Graciosa Dwarf Donkey is an ancient and rare autochthonous asinine breed, native to Graciosa Island, only recognized as of 2015.
Description and personality
The Graciosa Donkey is known for its slightly long, silky fur, which can manifest itself in a wide range of colors, including brown, black, white, and gray. Despite its fragile appearance, this is a hardy breed. It has long ears and a thick mane.
It is accepted by the scientific community that the Graciosa Donkey is descended from an African asinine variation, due to the cranial features that both species share.
Besides its appearance, the Graciosa Donkey is known for its docile and friendly personality, being a trustworthy and loyal animal, and enjoying human interaction. This very curious animal is also very intelligent and trainable, which makes it ideal to accompany its owners on walks and trips.
History and Preservation
The Graciosa Donkey has a long history on the island, having been used for many centuries as working animals to help with agricultural tasks and transportation. However, with the advent of other means of transportation, the population of Graciosa Donkeys went into decline.
Today, the breed is considered an endangered species, with only about 100 animals on the island of Graciosa. The Association of Breeders and Friends of the Dwarf Donkey of Graciosa Island has worked hard to preserve the breed, promoting its use as a companion animal and for rural tourism.
Current Uses
In addition to being pets, the donkeys of Graciosa are now used in various other contexts, including as work animals on farms, as support animals in tourist activities, and as models for photographs and videos.
