Animal Figure. Also known as Hanabiko, a Western lowland gorilla, she became famous for her ability in learning signs from American Sign Language. The name "Hanabiko," literally ''fireworks child," is of Japanese origin and is a reference to her date of birth, the Fourth of July. She was featured in numerous publications which included National Geographic (1978 and 1985), children's books, as well as documentaries. Beginning at the age of one, under the mentorship of psychologist Francine 'Penny' Patterson, Koko learned roughly 2000 words in English during her lifetime. In 1984, she showed a fondness for cats, so she adopted a kitten as a pet, naming him "All Ball," revealing her ability to rhyme. Koko was featured in a 1998 episode of "Mr. Rogers Neighborhood." She died in her sleep at the age of forty-six.
Animal Figure. Also known as Hanabiko, a Western lowland gorilla, she became famous for her ability in learning signs from American Sign Language. The name "Hanabiko," literally ''fireworks child," is of Japanese origin and is a reference to her date of birth, the Fourth of July. She was featured in numerous publications which included National Geographic (1978 and 1985), children's books, as well as documentaries. Beginning at the age of one, under the mentorship of psychologist Francine 'Penny' Patterson, Koko learned roughly 2000 words in English during her lifetime. In 1984, she showed a fondness for cats, so she adopted a kitten as a pet, naming him "All Ball," revealing her ability to rhyme. Koko was featured in a 1998 episode of "Mr. Rogers Neighborhood." She died in her sleep at the age of forty-six.
Bio by: C.S.
Gravesite Details
This is a private sanctuary managed by The Gorilla Foundation, not a public venue.
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