Differences Between Horse and Donkey

The major differences between Horse and Donkey are mentioned below:

Characteristic

Horse

Donkey

Scientific Name

Equus ferus caballus

Equus africanus asinus

Size

Generally larger

Generally smaller

Body Build

Refined build

Stockier build

Coat

Short, fine hair

Longer, coarser mane and tail hair

Ears

Larger and longer

Shorter and more upright

Tail

Long and flowing

Short with a tuft of hair

Hooves

Harder and more concave

Softer and flatter

Temperament

More spirited and energetic

More cautious and patient

Intelligence

Perceived as more flighty

Perceived as more stubborn

Vocalization

Neighs

Brays

Reproduction

Gestation period of about 11 months

Gestation period of about 12 months

Are Horses and Donkeys the Same Species?

No, horses and donkeys are not the same species. But, they both belong to the Equidae family and Equus genus even though horses and donkeys are different species. But Horses and Donkeys have different sets of chromosomes. The scientific name of the horse is Equus caballus, and the scientific name of the donkey is Equus africanus asinus.

Horses have 32 pairs of chromosomes and on the other hand donkeys have 31 pairs of chromosomes. Both horses and donkeys can be found in the wild all over the world. But their characteristics and habits are different. In this article, we will discuss why Horses and Donkeys are not the Same Species.

Table of Content

  • Are Horses and Donkeys the Same Species?
  • Horses
  • Donkeys
  • Differences Between Horse And Donkey
  • Conclusion – Are Horses and Donkeys the Same Species?
  • FAQs – Are Horses and Donkeys the Same Species?

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Conclusion – Are Horses and Donkeys the Same Species?

The horses and donkeys are different species but they belog to the same family and both are the herbivorous in nature. In this article, we have learned about why Horses and Donkeys are not the same species. Horses have 32 pairs of chromosomes. On the other hand, donkeys have only 31 pairs of chromosomes. This genetic difference prevents to production of fertile offspring in most cases. So, these two animals do not belong to the same species....

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