(EST status listings reflect the Equus Survival Trust's current web-posted Equine Conservation List.)



American Mammoth Jackstock - USA
EST Status: THREATENED
Developed in the American Colonies by breeders that included George Washington and Henry Clay to help in the production of large draft mules, this landrace breed was a diverse blending of three Spanish donkeys - the Andalusia, Majorcan, and Catalonian and two other breeds, the Maltese (Mediterranean), and Poitou (French) jackstock giving rise to a wide variety of types based upon bloodline preferences. The original purpose was for the production of mules, the tractors of the day and in high demand to transport goods. Today's American Mammoths come in a variety of colors, however their breed standard for selection over time became determined more by height rather than type and bloodlines. This trend is now reversing in favor of type preferences and bloodlines. Ranging from 14 to over 15 hands, Mammoths show marked gender differences, jennys being smaller and less massive than most males. Black is the original color, but greys are present, and sorrel has become a popular choice by some.



Poitou - FRANCE
EST Status: CRITICAL
Often referred to in France as the Baudet de Poitou (donkey of Poitou), research suggests original stock likely came from Spain. The Poitou of the last two centuries is decidedly French, noted for heavy bone, long black or dark brown " bai-brun" dreadlocks, and distinctive heavy head profiles and large hooves. Poitou were used to produce some of the world's finest draft mules in their hey day. Poitou are still the largest donkey breed, ranging in height from 13 hands to 15 hands or more. Always brown or black with light countershading on the underbelly, around the eyes, and on the muzzle, the Poitou is known for dreadlock coats called cadanette, the coat hair being that is softer than other donkey breeds. There are less than 200 Poitou donkeys in the world and only a handful of registered individuals in the USA recognized by France.

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