Global donkey and mule populations: Figures and trends

Area of Science:

• Equine population dynamics
• Animal welfare science
• Agricultural economics

Background:

• Accurate donkey and mule population data are crucial for targeted welfare interventions and understanding population threats.
• Previous global trend analysis of equid populations concluded in 2000, using data up to 1997.
• The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) provides annual country-level data on donkey and mule populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To update global, regional, and country-level trends in donkey and mule populations from 1997 to 2018.
• To assess changes in population trends compared to the 1961-1997 period.
• To explore the socio-economic drivers influencing these population changes and their implications for welfare.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) statistical data on donkey and mule populations.
• Comparative analysis of population trends between 1961-1997 and 1997-2018.
• Identification of regional population changes and discussion of associated socio-economic factors.

Main Results:

• Global donkey populations show a continued increase of approximately 1% per annum.
• Global mule populations continue to decline at a rate of approximately 2% per annum.
• The largest increases in donkey populations are observed in sub-Saharan Africa, while Eastern Europe shows the greatest reduction, influenced by distinct socio-economic drivers.

Conclusions:

• The study confirms ongoing trends in donkey and mule populations, driven by multifaceted socio-economic factors.
• Effective one-welfare approaches require understanding these complex drivers.
• Enhanced country-level data communication to the FAO is essential, supported by NGOs, to improve global equid population monitoring and welfare initiatives.