Dear Friend,
When I showed Koko a large mirror, she signed โHave Koko-love mirrorโ and eagerly examined her reflectionโtilting her head, kissing the glass, and even playfully signing โThat nut!โ
At several points she clearly signed โThatโs me,โ revealing both her curiosity and her unmistakable recognition of herself. It was a lively, funny, and deeply meaningful glimpse into Kokoโs self-awareness.
Moments like this remind us that gorillas are not only intelligent, but also deeply self-reflective beings with emotions and awareness much like our own.
This is why our work continuesโwhether through our Cross River Gorilla Project in Cameroon, helping one of the most endangered gorilla populations on Earth, or by advocating for gorillas living in zoos today who deserve a more natural, enriched life.
Kokoโs story inspires us to ensure that all gorillas are treated with the dignity and care their inner lives so clearly demand.
Thank you for participating in the continuation of Koko’s unique legacy!
With Koko-Love,
Dr. Penny Patterson
President, CEO and Founder
The Gorilla Foundation / Koko.org
Conservation through Communication
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 Koko’s Legacy of gorilla conservation and care today!
