Donkeys were first domesticated around 5,000 years ago as beasts of burden and companions, most likely in Egypt or Mesopotamia. There are about 41 million donkeys in the world today; China has the most with 11 million, followed by Pakistan, Ethiopia, and Mexico.
Donkeys vary considerably in size, depending on breed and management. The height at the withers ranges from 7.3 hands (31 inches or 79 cm) to 15.3 hands (63 inches or 160 cm), and they weigh from 80 to 480 kg (180 to 1,060 lb.). Working donkeys in the poorest countries have a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years; and in more prosperous countries, they may have a lifespan of 30 to 50 years.
Breeds of Alpacas
There are the following breeds of Alpacas:
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 Huacaya
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Huacaya alpacas are medium-sized animals with a distinctive, fluffy appearance. They have short, soft, dense fleece that grows perpendicular to their skin, creating a teddy bear-like appearance. They have a rounded, cute, and cuddly appearance, which makes them popular as pets and for use in therapeutic programs. They typically weigh between 120 and 190 pounds and stand about three feet tall at the shoulder.
Huacayas are primarily rai
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Suri |
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Suri alpacas have unique fiber characteristics that
distinguish the Suri from the rest of the camelid family. Unlike the soft fuzzy
look of the Huacaya alpaca, the Suri's long, separate, distinctive locks are
comprised of twisted or flat fibers that drape down the sides of the Suri's
body. The Suri's fiber has a cool, slick handle or feel, can be as soft as
cashmere, warmer than wool, with the luster of silk. Suris comprise about 15% of the
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Donkeys