The existence of “wild donkeys” depends on the distinction between truly wild species and feral animals. A genuinely wild animal is one that has never undergone the process of domestication, retaining its original genetic and behavioral traits. In contrast, most free-roaming donkeys encountered by the public are classified as feral; these are the descendants of previously domesticated animals that have escaped or been released and now survive without human intervention. Understanding this distinction is key to accurately defining the animal.
The True Wild Donkey
The sole progenitor of the domestic donkey, and the only species considered a true wild donkey, is the African Wild Ass (Equus africanus). This species is currently listed as critically endangered, with only a few hundred individuals estimated to remain in the wild. Its historical range once spanned North and East Africa, but now it is confined to the arid desert and semi-desert regions of the Horn of Africa.
The African Wild Ass possesses distinct physical characteristics. The Somali Wild Ass subspecies (E. a. somaliensis) is recognized for horizontal black stripes on its legs, resembling a zebra, while all subspecies exhibit a slender, dark dorsal stripe. They are well-adapted to their harsh environment, capable of surviving on sparse desert vegetation and extracting moisture efficiently. These solitary animals typically weigh between 510 and 610 pounds.
Feral Populations Across the Globe
The vast majority of free-roaming donkeys encountered worldwide are feral populations descended from the domesticated donkey, Equus asinus. These animals are commonly referred to as burros, particularly in the American West, where they were introduced by Spanish explorers and miners beginning in the 16th century. When their utility declined with the advent of motorized transport, many were released and established self-sustaining populations in the rugged, arid landscapes.
In the United States, feral burros are primarily found in the desert regions of states like Arizona, California, and Nevada, with some populations protected under federal law. In Australia, feral donkeys are considered an invasive pest species, with population estimates ranging from two to five million individuals. Introduced in the 19th century for transport, these donkeys thrive in Australia’s northern and central arid areas, where they compete with native wildlife and livestock for limited water and forage.
Conservation and Management
The conservation needs for the two types of donkeys present a stark contrast. The African Wild Ass requires intensive preservation efforts, focusing on protecting its extremely small remaining populations from poaching, interbreeding with domestic donkeys, and competition with livestock for grazing resources. Habitat loss and armed conflict in its native range further complicate the species’ recovery.
Conversely, the management of feral donkey populations is focused on population control and mitigation of environmental impact. In Australia, the high numbers of feral donkeys cause significant ecological damage, including overgrazing, soil erosion, and the fouling of water sources. To manage these populations, methods such as aerial culling and the “Judas” technique—where a collared animal leads managers to a herd—are employed to reduce their numbers and limit environmental degradation.