Poitou donkeys or even called Baudet du Poitou are donkey breeds that originate from the Poitou region of France. It is famous mainly for its large size and its special coating which will form dreadlocks if left ungroomed for a long time.
Due to its size and strength, the Poitou donkey is one of the most popular animals in the past. It was exported to many countries, including America, Russia, the Belgian Congo, and North Africa.
While in France, Poitou was raised solely for use in donkey breeding, an activity that contributed significantly to the French agricultural economy.
Picture: Google
In the former province of Poitou, donkey breeders would traditionally leave the animal’s fur ungroomed, causing it to form uneven bumps known as dreadlocks. Sometimes, it will grow so long that it can reach the ground.
Unfortunately, due to the widespread use of machines in the 20th century, donkey breeding is no longer relevant. Many breeders decide to abandoned or killed these animals. In 1977, a survey found that there were only 44 specimens left globally.
According to Oddity Central, thanks to conservation efforts initiated by a number of breeders and public and private organizations, Poitou donkeys were successfully rescued from extinction. Today, there are hundreds of them living in various countries around the world.
Although no longer threatened with extinction, this donkey breed is still classified as endangered. This is because the population of Poitou donkeys is now below 500 worldwide.
Source: Oddity Central, The Donkey Sanctuary
