Koko the Gorilla - Koko Gorilla Facts

Koko was born on July 4, 1971.

Koko is a famous gorilla who is able to understand more than 1000 signs based on American Sign Language. Koko also understands approximately 2000 words of spoken English. Koko is often referred as the "talking gorilla".

Koko was taught sign language as an experiment when she was a baby. Thirty-five years later, Koko is still signing today.

Koko is also famous for the heart-warming relationship she has with cats and kittens. A book has been written about this inspiring connection. This book is called Koko's Kitten.

Koko's greatest desire is to have a baby.

• Koko was born on July 4, 1971
• Koko's full name is Hanabi-Ko. This means "Fireworks Child" in Japanese.
• Koko's favourite color is red.
• Koko's favorite foods are nuts, gourmet tofu dishes, apples, corn-on-the-cob
• Koko has pet cats and kittens

Koko understands spoken English and has a vocabulary of over 1000 signs based on American Sign Language.

Dr. Penny Patterson has been working with Koko for over 30 years. Today, Penny and Koko continue to work together in one of the longest interspecies communication studies that has ever recorded.

Did you know that Koko is an artist? You can purchase one of Koko's paintings at KokoMart.

Want to help Koko save her species?

Shop at KokoMart and get a free 2010 Koko Calendar with any purchase or donation.

Shop at KokoMart

The Gorilla Foundation is setting up a preserve for endangered gorillas on west Maui, Hawaii. This tropical climate is more suitable than the current location in California. The Maui Ape Preserve will include a private sanctuary on 70 acres of land. The gorillas will be able to socialize, forage and raise their children without any threat from hunters.