Donkeys Revitalize Israeli Desert Ecosystem After 40 Years

In 1982, Israeli specialists released 28 wild donkeys into the Ramon Crater in the Negev Desert as part of a program to reintroduce the species to its historical habitat. More than four decades later, these animals have become a significant factor in the restoration of the desert ecosystem, according to the Times of India. The initiative involved Persian onagers and African wild asses, both endangered species. The program began in the 1960s with the arrival of 11 onagers from Iran, later supplemented by African wild asses from Ethiopia to enhance genetic diversity. After a period of controlled breeding, the animals were released into the wild.

Their population in the region now numbers an estimated 500 to 600 individuals. The donkeys have proven particularly valuable during droughts, tolerating temperatures over 40 degrees Celsius and surviving for days without water. By digging for moisture with their hooves, they create small water sources that benefit other desert fauna, including foxes, gazelles, and bats. The donkeys also aid in vegetation spread by consuming acacia pods and dispersing seeds through their droppings, with their digestive process softening the seed coats to promote germination. Additionally, hoof imprints help retain rainwater.

Scientists played a crucial role by crossbreeding the Iranian onagers with Ethiopian wild asses, creating hybrid offspring that exhibited greater resilience to diseases and climate fluctuations. Concurrently, terraces and earthen dams, inspired by ancient Nabataean techniques, were constructed to manage rainwater runoff and maintain groundwater levels. This combination of the donkeys' natural activities and targeted conservation efforts has transformed the Ramon Crater and parts of the Negev Desert into a successful example of ecosystem restoration in an arid region.