Wednesday, October 7, 2009
PEA RIDGE — Donkey — World wide name for the ass family.
Jack, Jackass, Jack Ass — The male of the ass family, equis asinus.
Jennet or Jenny — The female of the ass family, equis asinus.
Burro — Small animals of the ass family from Mexican and Spanish stock, native to the Southwestern U.S. but not widespread.
Mammoth Jack or Jennet
— Large animals of the ass family (14 hands or more), used for mule production. To call these animals a burro or donkey was considered an insult.
Hand — A measure f height for equines. A hand is equal to four inches.
Mule — A cross between a mule ass (jack) and a female horse.
Hinny — A cross between a stallion (horse) and a female ass (jennet).
Mule colt — A mule under the age of one, male or female.
Mare Mule — This term was used exclusively by old-timers to describe a female mule over the age of one. If younger, it would be a “mare mule colt.” The term “Molly mule” is now commonly used.
Horse Mule — A male mule over the age of one, or a “horse mule colt” if younger. The term “John” or “Jack” are now used.
News, Pages 21 on 10/07/2009