Buyer protection
Contents
Long ears are the first thing people associate with donkeys. They are not only beautiful but also practical – and they reveal a lot about how the donkey is feeling.
Hearing well in open landscapes
The ancestors of our domestic donkeys lived in vast, barren areas where the animals often foraged for food scattered far apart. Large, mobile ears help them detect sounds and calls from fellow donkeys over greater distances. This is complemented by their loud calls – more on this in the post Why do donkeys bray?.
Dissipating heat
The ears are well supplied with blood. The body can release heat through their large surface area – helpful in hot regions.
What ear position reveals
- Facing forward: alert and interested
- Relaxed to the side: relaxed or dozing
- One ear forward, one back: the donkey is monitoring several things at once
- Flat back against the head: displeasure or defensiveness – keep your distance
Ears and care
Many donkeys are sensitive around their ears. Touching the head should therefore be introduced calmly and gradually. In summer, flies around the ears can be annoying – more on this in Donkeys in summer.
Frequently asked questions
Do donkeys hear better than humans?
Donkeys detect many sounds earlier and can turn their ears individually toward the source of the sound.
Do all donkeys have ears of the same length?
No. The length depends on the breed and size. More on this in Donkey breeds at a glance.
