Minature Donkey a protector?

[JodyJo]

Did I read here that a miniature donkey, or a regular sized one, can be used to deter coyotes from wandering into the yard after chickens?

I have the chance to get one, a mini, for a few bucks, and thought why not? I lost my silkie last week or so to a coyote, the first loss in 2 yrs...so
I don't mind feeding a mini donkey if he can keep the coyotes at bay.

Anyone had any experience with this?

 

[KYTinpusher]

We also recently bought a miniature donkey to keep our miniature cow company. I am no expert, but I have done a lot of reading about them recently, as well as talked to those who own them. Donkeys have an innate hatred of anything canine, although they can learn to tolerate resident dogs. Actually, they are not fond of anything strange or unusual, like strangers. The farm we got ours from had plenty of dogs, and the donkeys did not seem too concerned about them. I have read, however, that a mini donkey is not really big enough to be effective against a large coyote or dog. As our cow is growing her horns, I figure between the two of them, they will be a force to be reckoned with and unless the coyote/stray dog is really hungry, they will try to find an easier meal elsewhere. A miniature donkey will probably help, but may not be a full solution and keep in mind that they live for 25 - 30 years! And they can be LOUD! but some I have met are just like a big dog in the affection department.

 

[WoodlandWoman]

I'm not sure what to tell you. It might depend on how bad the coyote problem is in your area.

In bad areas, I've heard that you need a large donkey, not a mini, to deal with coyotes. That's what my friends and neighbors with sheep have used, too. It could be that a mini or two would help, if you don't have a serious problem.

It may depend on how many coyotes you have and how aggressive they are at taking prey. Coyotes can be too much for a single livestock guardian dog in some cases, especially a young dog. Coyotes aren't always alone. Even working dogs are safer if they're in pairs, for some predators. Other times, just having any dog or mini around might be enough to discourage them. The temperament and experience of the donkey might make a difference, too.

Sometimes, managing predators is a little like managing thieves. You just want to make your home a little more trouble and risky to steal from than someone else's.

I'll be interested to see what others have to say about this.

 

[JodyJo]

well, let me describe where I live, VERY rural southern Colorado about 8,000 ft. We have cattle, that is what hubby does...last year we had a heifer die, a pack of 9 moved in on her, it was like watching Nat Geo Wild in my fields! (I am a photographer, so this was an awesome sight!)

So between the cattle and the donkey, when most of the cattle are in the mountains for summer pasture, I was hoping to use the donkey to help deter...he is a stud, so he won't be the nicest...although well broke, I am hoping since he still has "the boys", he will be less friendly to a coyote.

Anyone else with any advice...there is only so much a .22 can do!

 

[Mrshollywood]

I purchased a Mini donkey a couple years back to keep my horse company. He is a joy to have and a sweet little guy. My husband actually likes him (since he could care less about my other pets).

Just yesterday we witnessed him chasing a coyote away from the chicken coop and back thru the fence into the woods next door!!!!!! He is a spunky little guy and does not like unknown dogs of any sorts. It was the coolest thing! My horse just stood there and watched while the chickens all ran for cover back at the coop

He and my bulldog Max have come to an understanding with each other, but I wouldn't leave Max in the pasture unattended with him since Max is 10 and can't run anymore.

Positive things about Donkey:
Protects the pasture from unwanted animals.
He lets us know when ANYONE pulls into our driveway, so we never have unannounced guests.
He needs to eat very little to stay healthy/fat.
Doesn't mind or go after the chickens.
VERY SMART

Negative Things about Donkey:
Will go thru fences if there is something better on the other side.
Loves to get into the chicken feeders if coop door left ajar.
VERY SMART

Black Jack and our Bulldog Sir Max

Black Jack and my daughter sun bathing in the pasture on Fathers Day

 

[JodyJo]

Quote:
Love this...thanks so much for the advice! I will see if I can pick the little guy up..he sold at the local sale barn for $10....my hubby works there, and its the owner that bought it, so I am certain we can get him! Appreciate the response, he is adorable BTW!

 

[tiasphyre]

I have raised several Mini Donkeys.. Best of all before being guard Donkey, they are
very Smart, Clever and Have a mind of their own..... I also raise Rescue Thoroughbreds,
and My Mini Donkey's have no Qualms telling these big horses who really is the Boss..
They have such Wonderful Personalities... All Their own....
I never worry about my Chickens or Sheep, I also always know if something is not
just right in one of the pastures... Donkey's always Tell... Protect, Chase Dogs, Cats.
and even People who do not belong.....
God Bless Our Donkeys.......
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