Dear Friend,

Sometimes the simplest things turn into a little adventure. I brought Koko a whole coconut and let her look it over — before I used a nail and hammer to make a small opening.

Koko stayed right with me through every step — watching, listening, and making sure I didn’t miss what mattered most: the first taste.

Once the coconut water started to flow, Koko drank and then insisted I try it too. For Koko, it was never only about getting the treat. It was about sharing the moment.

After that, I cracked the coconut open, and we got to see what was inside.  Koko’s curiosity and teamwork shine through this clip — one small project, done side by side.

In some traditions, a coconut is offered or broken to mark a new beginning. That makes this coconut-opening video a fitting way to welcome the New Year.

Happy New Year from all of us at The Gorilla Foundation!

With Koko-Love,

Penny Patterson
President, CEO and Founder
The Gorilla Foundation / koko.org

P.S. Is there a “coconut” in your life this year — a challenge you’re working to crack or a new beginning you’re excited to share? Ours is to create a sustainable future for all gorillas, including those who are currently living in captivity and those in the wild who should be free-living.

Conservation through Communication

The Gorilla Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
Our Federal Tax ID is: 942-38-6151