Koko watches a movie that she's seen many times before, called "Tea with Mussolini." When it gets to the "sad" part (the boy is getting on a train and leaving his mother), Koko turns away. Then she begins signing "Frown", "Sad", "Trouble", "Mother" and she Read more
As Koko's 43rd birthday approaches (July 4, 2014), here's a glimpse of how she celebrated her 42nd birthday (2013). We'll do our best to top it, by listening carefully to what she asks for, while paying attention to her current needs. Join us in remembering last year's party, as we prepare for another. You can Read more
In this short video clip, Ndume uses a barrel to reach an enrichment item — a puzzle containing food. Enrichment is an important part of a gorilla's day, and of the Foundation's gorilla care and wellness program, for both Koko and Ndume. You can read more about our multifaceted approach to care and wellness — Read more
Ndume (Koko's male companion) enjoys taking afternoon naps in the sun in a nest of blankets. When he's not napping and feels particularly happy, he often plays with his blankets and other enrichment items. In this video Ndume has fun with one of his favorite pieces of enrichment and makes a series of gestures, Read more
Koko demonstrates her ability to control her vocalizations and breath in two different situations. First, she demonstrates a "Blow-Test" as a welcome gesture during her meeting with Mister ("Fred") Rogers, vocalizing "who" after Penny and Mister Rogers do. Then, in a separate sequence, she demonstrates a "Blow-Out" Read more
Koko was in awe of Mister Rogers when he visited in 1999, as she had been watching him on TV since she was a baby. In this video, Koko signs to Mister Rogers that she loves his visit and Mister Rogers seems truly Read more
Our mission is to learn about gorillas by communicating with them, and apply our knowledge to advance great ape conservation, education, care and empathy.
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