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Donkeys could form several
types of social groupings. In the sanctuary there’s one
dominant male and several subordinate males. The mares are called
their harem.
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Donkeys spend over 50 percent
of their day feeding.
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Donkeys can rest
whilst standing; resting donkeys stand with lowered heads, floppy ears
and closed eyes. They also rest lying on the ground. Foals tend to
rest on the ground or leaning against their mother.
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Donkeys frequently roll,
shake and then groom after rest periods. This revives their sweaty
or flattened coats, and removes some parasites and moulted hair.
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Donkeys love to poop
on top of a previous pile of their own dung.
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Most braying is
performed by territorial males. Harem bosses bray to maintain contact
with members of the group and advertise group possession of the area.
Subordinate males rarely bray in presence of dominant males, unless
several donkeys are braying at once.
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It is possible for a female
donkey to be the leader of the group.
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The braying donkeys message
is reinforced by the possession of his ears. In a greeting the ears
are held back slightly. For a challenge, the ears are flattened back.
During courtship, the ears are up and pointing forward.
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The snorting some
donkeys provide is a sign of excitement or relief.
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Donkeys
are very playful. This is why there are coconuts and footballs
in the sanctuary.
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