Pantelleria
Donkeys are an ancient breed from Pantelleria island, Italy, where they were
common until a few decades ago.
Pantelleria
Donkeys are very strong, in the past the were used to carry extremely heavy
loads around the paths of the island. They represented an important resource
for the island and Trapani province. The hybrids (mules) were highly
appreciated abroad, as well. Also at some time in the past speed races were
organized on track and Pantelleria Donkeys was preferred to horses, as they
were more suitable to be ridden on any kind of ground. Unfortunately they are
now almost totally extinct.
They are very
robust animals, with a fast and sure walk when descending rocky paths mainly,
thanks to the natural amble walk (they move forwards the limbs of the same
side), their comfortable mount and a precocious growth, together with a great
physical stamina and toughness to hardships like the lack of drinking water;
not least their intelligence. These are the main features of this animal that
for a lot of time accompanied the life and the labour of people in Pantelleria.
Content and Photo source: Agraria.org.
About Pantelleria Donkeys
