Mules and their owners have special language

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

— 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