World's Heaviest Donkey Stallion Charles Journeys to France
- Stallion named Charles preparing for journey to France.
Selecting selective genetics, "Charles," the unique Poitou stallion born in Germany and the first of his kind to be born in the nation, is off to the breed's French origin. The rare-genetic stallion's assets are scarce in France, and the breed's bloodlines are at risk due to inbreeding, Tierpark Arche Warder announced. Boasting scarcely 600 purebred Poitou donkeys worldwide, regular blood exchange is vital for conservation.
In the name of preserving endangered domestic animal breeds, Tierpark Arche Warder stated close collaboration with breeding associations and fellow breeders is indispensable. The Poitou donkey is among several species bred at the center to impede extinction.
Poitous' stout lineage
"Charles" emerged in Arche Warder in 2012, the offspring of the distinctive Poitou stallion "De Gaulle Mephisto." He was gelded in 2018.
Although not the tallest, Poitou donkeys take the throne as the heaviest domesticated donkey species worldwide, with stallions weighing up to a colossal 450 kilograms, as Tierpark suggests.
Poitou donkeys were heavily utilized for mule breeding
Poitou donkeys were renowned for their size and strength, being bred extensively for mule production. Poitou stallions had the heft to mate with large draft horse mares, yielding mules strong enough to pull up to 2.5 tons and carry loads equating to their body weight of 750 kilograms. These mules served the French army admirably, towing heavy artillery guns.
Cultural Significance
- In France: Poitou donkeys played a crucial role in regional agriculture and transportation, deeply rooted in the country's history before becoming threatened with extinction in the mid-20th century. Conservation efforts spearheaded by groups like the Poitou Donkey Association prevented the breed's disappearance, maintaining its role as part of French cultural heritage.
- In Germany: While Poitou donkeys were not as historically prominent in Germany as in France, breeders value the breed for its mule-producing traits. In recent years, a passion for protecting rare and native breeds has grown, potentially including Poitou donkeys — however, specific conservation endeavors may be less pronounced in Germany compared to France.
By preserving these magnificent creatures, we maintain the heritage and history of their regions. Charles's journey, indeed, a powerful reminder.
Vocational training in the conservation of endangered breeds is crucial, especially for the Poitou donkey, as regular blood exchange is vital to prevent inbreeding. The Poitou donkey, with Charles being a notable example, was historically bred for its size and strength, making it suitable for vocational training in mule production. The community policy should aim to promote and support such vocational training programs to ensure the preservation of unique breeds like the Poitou donkey, maintaining their cultural significance in both France and Germany.
