Dear Friend,
In this sweet moment from 2007, Koko sits peacefully in her room and repeatedly blows into her hand, creating a soft, audible “kiss goodbye” (see the above video).
I tell Koko how sweet it is, and Koko directs a kiss towards me.
It’s a quiet but powerful reminder of how gorillas like Koko can communicate affection and intention, not just through signs but through natural gestures and sound.
I really miss her when I watch the above video, but it also reminds me of how important it is to carry on the mission that was inspired by her — conservation through communication!
With Koko-Love,
Dr. Penny Patterson
President, CEO and Founder
The Gorilla Foundation / Koko.org
The Gorilla Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
Our Federal Tax ID is: 942-38-6151
Without the support of people like you, Gorillas remain at risk.
Thank you for supporting gorilla conservation and care today!