Asses
The ass, Equus asinus, is a domesticated animal of the horse family, Equidae.
Ass size and defense
Most wild donkeys are between 102 cm and 142 cm in length. Domestic donkeys stand under 91 cm to over 142 cm tall. Donkeys are adapted to marginal desert lands, and have many traits that are unique to the species as a result. Unlike horse fur, ass fur is not waterproof, and so they must have shelter when it rains. Wild donkeys live separate, unlike tight wild asses. Donkeys can defend themselves with a powerful kick of their hind legs.
Donkeys have a reputation for stubbornness, but this is due to some handlers’ misinterpretation of their highly-developed sense of self preservation. It is difficult to force or frighten a donkey into doing something it sees as contrary to its own best interest, as opposed to horses who are much more willing to, for example, go along a path with unsafe footing.
Shrek
Donkey is a fictional talking ass from the Shrek movies, voiced by Eddie Murphy. Little is known of his upbringing, or indeed of any of his life prior to his friendship with Shrek: owned by a somewhat unpleasant old lady, he found his freedom after escaping while she was attempting to negotiate his handover to agents of Lord Farquaad.
He is known to have a fear of rickety old bridges, enjoy parfaits, and be something of a hypochondriac. He is scrupulously honest, and enjoys singing. Some find him irritating, perhaps because they find his enthusiasm overarching. He does not have any toes, and is colorblind. He also made a guest appearance in the Dreamworks animation, Father of the Pride.
Ass Welfare
In prosperous countries, the welfare of donkeys both at home and abroad has recently become a concern, and a number of sanctuaries for retired donkeys have been set up.
