Barney and a Donkey's Blessing

Today on Bonnie's Barnyard at NBC26 in Green Bay, Barney made his debut. What a well behaved chap! News anchor Jenny Evans wanted to take him home with her! Sorry Jenny. Barney may be a miniature donkey but still too big for the house. :)

Mulberry Lane Farm brings you Barney at Bonnie's Barnyard.

Fun donkey facts:

·       A male donkey is called a Jack. A female donkey is called a Jenny. Their offspring are foals.

·       A mule is a cross between a male donkey and a female horse.

·       A hinny is a cross between a male horse and a female donkey.

·       Miniature donkeys are less than 36” tall. The large standard donkey is 48” – 56”.

·       Donkeys are often a lifeline to families in many regions of the world and their most prized possession. They help with water and wood fuel collection (truck), used to cultivate land (tractor), transportation to market (car), and loyal affectionate companion (the family dog).

·       Donkeys are very affectionate animals and enjoy the companionship of people. Donkeys need companions or they will become very depressed.

·       The donkey does not have natural ‘waterproof’ coats like horses and so need access to shelter.

·       Legend has it that a donkey has been marked with a cross (dark hair across its shoulder and down its back forming a cross) because the donkey carried Mother Mary into Bethlehem and later Jesus into Jerusalem.

·       Donkeys are unfairly thought to be stubborn and stupid. But actually, they are so intelligent they are cautious and no amount of human probing can make a donkey think a situation is safe if a donkey has decided it is dangerous.

·       The donkey’s characteristic ‘Eee awe’ sound is made by an intake of breadth followed instantly by exhaling.

·       If well cared for, donkeys can live for more than 40 years.