Wild donkeys transform Israeli desert into oasis
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In 1982, Israel released 28 wild donkeys into the Ramon Crater, a desert region in southern Israel, to help restore the dry landscape.
The donkeys created small pools of water by digging and their movements formed depressions that held rainwater. These water sources then became vital for other desert animals. The donkeys also aided plant life by dispersing acacia seeds through their droppings. This contributed to the growth of trees and further improved the environment.
Researchers observed these changes over 44 years, noting the significant ecological transformation. The Ramon Crater, known as one of Earth’s most extreme places, now supports a wider range of life because of the donkeys' actions. The changes have attracted international attention as an example of how reintroducing animals can benefit a damaged ecosystem. The study demonstrates how a relatively small number of animals can have a large impact on a landscape over time.
