We all give off subtle clues as to our true feelings through body language and donkeys are no exception. Sometimes however, they are not so subtle! A gentle nose nudge can mean they want you to move away and a gentle nip usually is a more cautionary 'get back!'. Donkeys have been known to pull on your sleeve should they want something you have, such as a treat that may be hiding in your coat pocket. A raised leg could just mean that a fly is tickling or biting them, or it could mean a warning that a kick is coming. A donkey who turns their hind end to you could be feeling nervous and is getting ready to kick, or they could just want you to scratch their bum:-) A swishing tail can help you figure out the difference (swishing = bad!). And then there's my favourite - the head rest. Some donkeys, when extremely comfortable with you will approach and rest their large head on your shoulder...a sign that they trust you, are comfortable in your presence and just want some petting:-)
Little Blue, the smallest of all the miniature donkeys, is a head rester...crouch down and he'll walk over, rest his head on your shoulder and you'll have no option but to love him up a little.