In Russian, there are two different names for one animal - donkey and donkey. What is the difference between these mammals, and is there any? After all, few are able to answer this question unequivocally. Often, different names can be used to mean the same thing. This article will help to understand whether these names are synonymous or refer to completely different species of animals.
Donkey and donkey: what kind of animals are these?
To answer the question, you can consider the origin of the names. Where the word “donkey” came from is not exactly known. Presumably, it is derived from the Latin asinus, which does not have a direct translation into our language, but means a mammal that looks like a horse, but differs in smaller sizes.
The history of the origin of the word “donkey” has Turkic roots and it was used just to denote the donkey familiar to us. According to biologists, these animals descended from Somali ancestors and in those ancient times they found economic use. It is believed that the first descendants of the donkeys appeared in the northern part of Africa, from where they eventually spread over the territory of Asia and the Middle East.
Is there a difference between a donkey and a donkey?
So how is a donkey different from a donkey? In fact, there are no differences between these mammals. These are two designations of the same animal. Just the word "donkey" appeared earlier and quickly gained popularity than "donkey".
But at the moment, in some places they are accustomed to call donkey males, and donkeys of females of the same species. This is the only difference between the donkey and the donkey.
In itself, the animal has a small stature, a nondescript color, and excessive stubbornness is noted in its behavior. However, with regard to the nature of this mammal, the prevailing opinion of people is somewhat stereotypical. Donkeys have many advantages, which makes them very useful allies in housekeeping. These creatures are almost omnivorous, absolutely unpretentious and surprisingly hardy. They have a high carrying capacity and do not need forging, than the donkey and donkey are different from horses. Although these mammals are not as popular as horses, they have many advantages.
What is the difference between a mule and a donkey and a donkey?
But there is another similar animal, which is of interest to many. This is a relative, which is a hybrid of a mare and a donkey. Since the question is what the difference between donkey and donkey is, the answer is received, then we will deal with mules.
It has external signs and behavioral characteristics of both parents:
- The dimensions of the mule are noticeably larger than the donkey and resembles a horse.
- Like a horse, this animal is able to participate in races.
- The head of the mule is much more like a donkey.
- Like a donkey, this mammal is surprisingly hardy and strong.
- Its life span can reach 40 years.
Mules, donkeys and donkeys are easily bred in farm conditions. They have incredibly strong immunity, and animals are not picky about food. But the distinguishing feature of mules is that they are not capable of breeding.
Interesting Facts
Despite their ugly appearance, donkeys are amazing mammals that are of great benefit to humans. There are some interesting facts about these beautiful creatures:
- The domestication of the donkey occurred about 5 thousand years ago by the Egyptians. It is believed that this is the first animal that people began to keep at home.
- Breeding donkeys has gained immense popularity, and they have spread throughout almost the entire globe.
- There are two types of donkeys and donkeys. What is the difference between the two? One species is domesticated, and the other is represented by wild individuals. The latter prefer to live in fairly large groups, sometimes numbering up to one thousand individuals.
- Donkeys are well able to adapt to completely different living conditions. They even manage to live a long period in the desert.
- It is believed that donkeys are prone to monogamy. Because of this, problems with the reproduction of individuals can occur.
- Almost immediately after birth, the little foal is ready to stand up. He weighs about 30 kg.
Having become acquainted with each of these animals, it becomes clear what the difference is between donkey, donkey and mule. What unites them is the strongest instinct of self-preservation, which many people perceive as obstinacy. If their closest relative, of which the horse is, can be driven to death, then with a donkey this is not possible, since he will not move until he rests.