Sunday, February 03, 2013

Good Morning, Beautiful!

Back From the Brink of Extinction

In 1997 only 30 Poitou donkeys of France were left alive

Many think the Poitou (pronounced roughly like this: pwah two) was originally bred as a mate for horses to produce huge, strong mules, but in the Middle Ages they were prized as riding animals for the rich because of their extremely friendly nature & ability to get along with other equines.  In fact, today's Poitou breeders believe you should have plenty of land if you want Poitous, because they love company!




When the desire for big strong mules faded, Poitous were sold off in herds, and many ended their lives on dinner plates. 



Now, thanks to a conservation program, it looks as if the friendly dread -locked donkeys will survive.  

Want to read more?Click here:   Poitou Donkey

Labels: conservation breeding program, endangered, France, Middle Ages, mule, Poitou donkey

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Posted by Terri Farley @ 8:47 AM

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