Koko The Gorilla Found Dead

Koko the gorilla, who rose to fame for her astounding skills in sign language, died in her sleep yesterday. She was 46.

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The announcement was made by The Gorilla Foundation on Thursday.

Born in 1971 at the San Francisco Zoo, USA, the primate was taught sign language by Dr. Francine “Penny” Patterson and Dr. Ronald Cohn from a young age.

Koko was a western lowland gorilla, and is reported to have understood more than 2,000 words in English.

Koko was a primary ambassador for her endangered species and touched the lives of millions. She taught the world that communication and empathy between species is possible.

“She was beloved and will be deeply missed,” The Gorilla Foundation said. “Koko’s capacity for language and empathy has opened the minds and hearts of millions.”

After their success with Koko, the foundation expanded their project to include another lowland gorilla, Michael.

Koko was featured in multiple documentaries and appeared on the cover of National Geographic twice.

She met the actor Robin Williams in 2001 before he filmed the Gorilla Foundation documentary three years later.

Williams, who died in 2014, was an honorary chairman of the foundation and described the experience as “mind-altering” and “unforgettable”.

“Her impact has been profound and what she has taught us about the emotional capacity of gorillas and their cognitive abilities will continue to shape the world,” the foundation added.

In honor of Koko, The Gorilla Foundation will continue her legacy by advancing their ongoing projects, including conservation efforts in Africa and a sign language application featuring Koko for the benefit of both gorillas and children.

Heartbroken fans posted tributes to Koko on social media.

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