We physically introduced all four boys to each other early Saturday afternoon. There was a lot of the flehmen response going on as everyone got accustomed to new smells.
We knew there was going to be an adjustment period as they figured out their hierarchy. Bernard’s introduction to Fergus and Nigel was completely uneventful.
Given Ellsworth’s status as head donkey, we thought things probably wouldn’t play out as smoothly with him. Even before we allowed them to meet physically, Ellsworth was charging the fence with his ears pinned back each time Fergus or Nigel got close. Sure enough, once we let him loose, Ellsworth went straight to Fergus and Nigel to let them know he was in charge.
Fergus and Nigel really weren’t having it. I admit there were moments when I felt I couldn’t breathe.
Ellsworth looked maniacal at times.
Don would step in to calm things down.
And then it would start back up again.
Thank goodness Ellsworth always knew to keep his chin up.
He did get kicked square in the chest quite a few times though.
In the end, it appears Ellsworth maintained head donkey status, along with a healthy respect for both Fergus and Nigel. It’s clear they aren’t going to tolerate being bullied, Fergus especially.
Ellsworth got a lot of extra love and attention that afternoon.
And peace once again returned to Morning Bray Farm.
April 20, 2010 at 4:38 am
WOW, looking at your pictures of ‘the period of adjustment’ got my heart beating faster. I understand it’s what has to be done, but it sure is hard until critters settle in and make their peace. Whew! Great series of pictures!!!
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April 20, 2010 at 5:53 am
So scary, but necessary.
Ellsworth might be a bit stiff for the next few days, huh?
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April 20, 2010 at 6:33 am
CeeCee,
He seems to be doing really well with extra hugs and kisses. In fact, everyone is doing well and we’re super happy. 🙂
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April 20, 2010 at 6:08 am
Ah. That is the hardest part about herd animals (or any of them, really!). I’m glad they worked it out and the herd is now one. Yay!
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April 20, 2010 at 6:41 am
Oh good! Glad Ellsworth maintained his status. It was after all his home first and I would feel so badly for him had he been down graded. *smiles*
Di
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April 20, 2010 at 6:57 am
Such great shots – I almost felt like I was there. I was also fully prepared to jump right in and comfort Ellsworth as he was sitting on the ground – lol. Herd dynamics are fascinating to watch, aren’t they? It’s amazing the kind of behaviors and adjustments the introduction (or removal, for that matter) of a new animal brings.
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April 20, 2010 at 7:09 am
I’m very impressed that you maintained your composure … and your camera perch … through this. I know your heart must have been in your throat the whole time. The worst is over. Peace will reign.
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April 20, 2010 at 7:49 am
Awesome photos. I had no idea donkeys ears could pin that far back! It makes a greater statement by far than horses ears.
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April 20, 2010 at 9:13 am
I love these photos! But on the other hand, being there in person.. scary I’m sure! I’m glad everyone settled down after all that ruckus. I guess this is one reason why I haven’t introduced any new donks. I’m a big chicken! But once pecking order is established, all should be well. Right?? Hope so!
Congrats on your two new fine-looking donks. I must back-track and catch up!
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April 20, 2010 at 9:21 am
Oh my! I was holding my breath while reading this! There were some really tense and scary moments there…I don’t know how you maintained your composure long enough to get all those terrific shots! Glad to hear Ellsworth maintained his rank and all is well at MB Farm.
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April 20, 2010 at 9:37 am
Oh Boy. Drama. I was just thinking how I wouldn’t want to be in the corral with that going on and you show Don stepping in! Whoa. I’m glad they got things sorted out.
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April 20, 2010 at 1:25 pm
Any time your in N.Y. I love talking donkeys !
I just went through adding a new jenny to my herd. Jennys not quite as rough as geldings. Only one kick made contact !
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April 20, 2010 at 1:29 pm
Mel,
Does that mean you have eight now? 🙂
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April 20, 2010 at 3:55 pm
I’m a newcomer to Morning Bray, but already addicted to the goings on there. I was worried for Ellsworth, after taking those kicks, until you reassured that he was well. Just this past weekend, one of our livestock guardian dogs had to have a large abscess drained. The vet believes it was caused as a result of one our big goats ramming him. Anyway, look forward to next installment.
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April 20, 2010 at 11:40 pm
Yikes! I didn’t breath until the photo with Don soothing Ellsworth. Great photos. You have nerves of steel.
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April 21, 2010 at 8:45 am
Ellsworth KNOWS he’s found gold! And by God, he’s not giving it up! I’m so glad he’s alright. Loved the photo’s. Girl, you’re giving Carson a run for her money on this whole “blogging” thang…..Enjoy your new babies…
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March 18, 2011 at 3:41 am
Where was I when this post went up? I don’t remember seeing it.
It appears that Ellsworth has come a long way in the last year in his comfort level. He knows Life is Good, and will continue to be good, and he need not be so defensive with Patrick. Or maybe he’s getting to like being Boss so much that “the more the merrier.” Or maybe he’s just a really really GOOD boss and reads the new arrivals and figures out what they need.
Maybe he felt Fergus and Nigel, being next to wild, needed a little show of strength . . . and Patrick needed warm fuzzies.
Do you get the feeling sometimes that Ellsworth is an old soul?
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March 18, 2011 at 6:30 am
June,
Yes, I certainly do. He definitely seems to have strong powers of perception and he definitely has something super special about him.
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