ASSOCIATION DES ÂNES DE GRACIOSA (ACABAIG)

From the time they settled on Graciosa in the ^16th century, Portuguese settlers used donkeys for agriculture, travel and transporting goods. Because of their importance to the island's development, these equines were numerous, before their population dwindled over the decades. The association founded by Franco and Sandra in 2013, Associação de Criadores do Burro Anão da Ilha da Graciosa (ACABAIG), aims to protect and conserve these animals, whose species was recognized as indigenous in 2015. When they began in 2013, only 45 of these equines remained. Today, thanks to their work, there are now around 100 donkeys on the island, 28 of which are spread across the plots on their property.

During the visit, the couple will explain the work carried out with Professor Arthur Machado, an expert in genetics, to have the species recognized, its characteristics and the reasons why it is important to preserve it. You'll also find out more about the role these animals have played in the history of the Azores, with period photos to prove it! To illustrate this point, you will of course be allowed to approach the donkeys and, if you feel like it, feed them or pose with them to take home a nice souvenir; they are very friendly and love to be stroked. Don't forget to let us know when you're coming, so we don't find the door closed.

An activity that's sure to please young and old alike!