Donkey facts for kids
Donkeys aren't stubborn — they stop to think before doing something unsafe.
Farmed Animals · Dry hills and sanctuaries
- Feelings
- Donkeys grieve when their companion dies and need gentle time to say goodbye.
- Clever thinking
- They remember routes and other donkeys for 25 years and learn safe paths quickly.
- Friendships
- Donkeys often pair for life and become anxious when separated from their buddy.
- How they talk
- Their famous bray can be heard three kilometres away, and they talk with ear positions.
- Babies
- Foals stay close to mum for about a year, learning which plants are tasty.
- Superpower
- Giant ears that hear far-off friends and help keep them cool in the heat.
Did you know?
- A donkey can remember places and friends for 25 years.
- Donkeys pause to think instead of running away from danger.
- Their ears work like radiators to cool them down.
Quick answers
Do donkeys have feelings?
Donkeys grieve when their companion dies and need gentle time to say goodbye.
How smart are donkeys?
They remember routes and other donkeys for 25 years and learn safe paths quickly.
Do donkeys have friends?
Donkeys often pair for life and become anxious when separated from their buddy.
How do donkeys talk to each other?
Their famous bray can be heard three kilometres away, and they talk with ear positions.
What is the superpower of donkeys?
Giant ears that hear far-off friends and help keep them cool in the heat.
Facts are based on published animal-behaviour research. Grown-ups can find sources on the Parents & Teachers page.