Maltese donkey

The Maltese donkey also known as Hmar Malti is a breed of donkey originated in Malta. It used to be used as a beast of burden. It is a relatively small breed of donkey with a compact body. It is considered as a part of cultural heritage of Malta, it has played its role in Malta's history in transportation and even used for entertainment for celebrations during Christmas. It was also imported to United States on the request of President George Washington, where it was used to breed the American mammoth donkey which changed the farming landscape of Southern states. Currently, there are only about 50 Maltese donkeys remaining.