
Donkey in a field Donkeys have a good memory and can recall places and directions. (more) Are Donkeys Intelligent? Ask the Chatbot a Question More Actions Share Share Share to social media Facebook X URL https://www.britannica.com/science/Are-Donkeys-Intelligent Feedback Corrections? Updates? Omissions? Let us know if you have suggestions to improve this article (requires login). Feedback Type Select a type (Required) Factual Correction Spelling/Grammar Correction Link Correction Additional Information Other Your Feedback Submit Feedback Thank you for your feedback Our editors will review what you’ve submitted and determine whether to revise the article.
External Websites Ask the Chatbot a Question Written by The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree.... The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica Last Updated: Sep 17, 2025 • Article History Table of Contents Table of Contents Ask the Chatbot Donkeys are intelligent animals, though they’re often thought to be slow and stubborn. Studies suggest that donkeys show signs of intelligence through cognitive traits such as memory, problem-solving, learning from their environment, and adapting to new challenges. The perceived stubbornness of donkeys is often a misinterpretation of their cautious nature. Donkeys are known to refuse work that is too heavy or dangerous, which is a sign of self-preservation and intelligence rather than obstinacy. This shows that they make decisions prioritizing their well-being, a clear indicator of their cognitive abilities. Unlike other creatures, such as horses, they don’t flee from danger ...(100 of 312 words)
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