African Wild Ass
Equus africanus
Critically Endangered
IUCN Red List status · Population decreasing as of 2023 · Est. 600 individuals
About the African Wild Ass
The ancestor of all domestic donkeys, the African wild ass is one of the rarest animals on Earth. Fewer than 600 remain in the wild in the Horn of Africa. They are perfectly adapted to arid environments, surviving on minimal water, but face extreme pressure from hunting and competition with livestock.
Region
North Africa
Population
600
Trend
Data Year
2023
Key Facts
Threats to Survival
Hunting for traditional medicine
Body parts are used in traditional medicine in the Horn of Africa.
Hybridization
Interbreeding with domestic donkeys dilutes the wild gene pool.
Ecosystem Role
Desert ecosystem
Wild asses open up tough desert vegetation, creating grazing patches used by smaller desert animals.
Habitat Types
Found In
Why Africa's Wildlife Matters
Africa's megafauna are not just iconic — they are ecosystem engineers. The loss of a single keystone species can trigger cascading collapses across entire biomes. Elephants create waterholes, lions regulate prey, and predators maintain the biodiversity that keeps Africa's grasslands and forests functioning.
20%
of Earth's bird species in Africa
25%
of mammals found in Africa
3,000+
endemic plant species at risk
Help spread the word about the African Wild Ass
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Adopt a African Wild Ass
Your monthly support directly funds this animal's protection.
34% funded
Desert Ally
$20/month
Protect the ancestor of all donkeys
- ✓ Digital certificate
- ✓ Monthly update
Horn of Africa Guardian
$45/month
Full anti-poaching and breeding program
- ✓ All Desert Ally perks
- ✓ Field report
- ✓ Photo print
Quick Stats