The Donkey Sanctuary is a global organisation that spans over 1,200 acres of farmland in Devon and Dorset, UK, and is renowned for its exceptional care of donkeys. It actively promotes sustainable habitat management and conservation, fostering a harmonious relationship between donkeys, people, and the natural environment.
Environmental preservation
Through its participation in Natural England’s Higher Level Stewardship Scheme, The Donkey Sanctuary contributes to landscape enhancement and environmental preservation. It undertakes various initiatives, including the restoration of species-rich grasslands, improvement of hedgerows, provision of food sources for insects, and effective management of woodland areas.
Wildlife and conservation efforts
The organisation places significant emphasis on wildlife and conservation efforts, spearheaded by its dedicated team. This team engages in sustainable habitat management, monitors species, and coordinates volunteer programs. Seasonal Conservation Days are organised to bolster biodiversity, enhance habitats, and provide essential food sources for wildlife.
Advocacy
Recognising the pivotal role of working equids in vulnerable communities, The Donkey Sanctuary collaborates with World Horse Welfare on a global scale. Together, they strive to advance welfare standards for working equids through legislative measures, policy advocacy, and the dissemination of best practices. Their collective impact has positively influenced the lives of over 1.6 million donkeys and mules worldwide, effecting enduring change and improving their overall well-being.
The organisation cherishes its access to breath-taking landscapes, enabling it to provide donkeys with lives characterised by safety and fulfilment. The Donkey Sanctuary remains unwavering in its commitment to enriching the lives of donkeys, safeguarding wildlife habitats, and fostering connections between individuals, donkeys, and the natural world.
The Donkey Sanctuary is committed to improving biodiversity on their land, including:
- Weekly volunteer days where the public can join the team in woodland management and hedge-laying as well as species monitoring and wildlife conservation
- Planting of 3,000 young hedge plants and trees with hundreds more being planted.
- Being involved in local biodiversity events, such as the 14000 tree project
- Participating in various environmentally friendly national projects improving the site’s regeneration, hedgerows for wildlife and reducing flood risks.