Browse Preferences, Intake, and Feeding Behaviour of Domestic Donkeys Provided Native Hedgerow Species

Donkeys (Equus asinus) are mixed feeders that browse and graze, with woody vegetation contributing substantially to free-roaming diets. However, domestic donkeys in the United Kingdom are typically kept on improved pastures with limited browse access. This study investigated browse preferences, intake, and time budgets when native hedgerow species were provided. Two complementary studies were conducted. In study one, hazel, field maple, hawthorn, and bramble were offered to miniature and standard herds across six cafeteria trials per herd, and biomass consumption and bite rate were recorded. In study two, browse was provided to three pairs, and foraging behaviour was recorded using instantaneous scan sampling. Proportional biomass consumption differed significantly among species, with miniature donkeys preferring hazel. Mean intake over 15 minutes was 445.0 g per standard donkey and 182.5 g per miniature donkey. During the time-budget study, donkeys spent 21% of observed time browsing, including consuming twigs and stripping branches and logs. Findings demonstrate preferences for hedgerow species and an emphasis on browsing when opportunities are available. Incorporating woody browse, particularly hazel, into domestic donkey management may support natural foraging behaviours.