Volume 31, Plate XIX / Mammalia (Mammals)

Wild Ass of Persia

Asinus hamar

The Hamar or wild ass of Persia, probably the Chamor of the Hebrews, is smaller than the great wild ass, with a proportionably large ugly head, no streak or cross upon the shoulders, and a dirty bay livery, appearing more solitary than its kin. Pursued on the open plains of Mesopotamia, it shows the habit of stopping, was seen by Xenophon in company with ostriches, and is thought the source of the small domestic asses of Ispahan.