Ethiopian Donkeys Threatened by Hyenas

Newsdate: Thu, 19 Apr 2012 - 11:41 am
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In Ethiopia, members of a Orthodox Tewahedo Church stop eating beef and dairy products during a 55-day period before Easter.

Importance of donkeys in Ethiopia

Importance of donkeys in Ethiopia

Speckled hyenas change their eating habits from scavenging rubbish from butchers and households to hunting donkeys.

According to reports, the lack of beef accessible for a hyenas to scavenge appears to be behind an increase in attacks on donkeys. Research published in a British Ecological Society’s Journal of Animal Ecology has shown that, as a result, speckled hyenas change their eating habits from scavenging rubbish from butchers and households to hunting, and donkeys become their prey.

The Donkey Sanctuary assists local owners in providing better care for their donkeys and the staff is aware that hyena attacks are one of the biggest threats to donkey welfare.

According to a report,  Dr Hagos Yhidego, who works with Mekelle University is taking the hyena attacks on donkeys seriously and says he will be contacting a researcher at the University about the problem which can have a devastating effect on local farmers.

About the Author

Flossie Sellers

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As an animal lover since childhood, Flossie was delighted when Mark, the CEO and developer of EquiMed asked her to join his team of contributors.

She enrolled in My Horse University at Michigan State and completed a number of courses in everything related to horse health, nutrition, diseases and conditions, medications, hoof and dental care, barn safety, and first aid.

Staying up-to-date on the latest developments in horse care and equine health is now a habit, and she enjoys sharing a wealth of information with horse owners everywhere.

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