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Michael lived through the slaughter of his family. He was tough, very few young apes survive this ordeal. A European veterinarian found and took him to live in a zoo in Vienna. At age three Michael was moved to the United States to live a very different life from that in the African rainforest.
On September 9, 1978, Michael joined Dr. Penny Patterson and Dr. Ron Cohn, and stayed with them the rest of his life. It was there that he met Koko, learned sign language, and become the most loved, educated, and intelligent African-born silverback gorilla in the world.
Penny, Koko and The Gorilla Foundation caregivers taught Michael to “talk” in sign language, so he could tell them his wants and his needs. Michael went way beyond their expectations: he learned how to talk about his thoughts, feelings, and dreams.
The Kids4Koko Pledge
As a “Kid for Koko,” you are the key to waking people up to the importance of treating other intelligent species and our planet with love and respect, and ensuring a brighter future for all.
If you agree, please sign the Kids4Koko Pledge and share with your friends.
