Berlin Zoo Celebrates Birthday of World's Oldest Gorilla
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Fatou, the world's oldest gorilla according to Guinness World Records, celebrated her birthday at the Berlin Zoo on April 13th. The western lowland gorilla, who arrived at the zoo in 1959, enjoys a specially prepared diet due to age-related health conditions.
Facts First
- Fatou is the world's oldest gorilla according to Guinness World Records
- She celebrated her birthday on April 13th at the Berlin Zoo with a vegetable feast
- Fatou arrived at the zoo in 1959 at the age of two
- Her diet is specially prepared due to age-related health issues like poor eyesight, arthritis, and blood sugar concerns
- Most of her teeth have fallen out, requiring zookeepers to cook most of her food
What Happened
Fatou, a western lowland gorilla, celebrated her birthday with a vegetable feast at the Berlin Zoo on April 13th. Guinness World Records recognizes Fatou as the world's oldest gorilla. She arrived at the West Berlin Zoo in 1959 at the age of two. Zookeepers do not know her exact birth date but selected April 13th as her birthday.
Why this Matters to You
This story highlights the care and longevity possible for animals in managed environments. It may offer a glimpse into the social nature of gorillas, who live in family groups and exhibit behaviors like mourning and caring for vulnerable members. For visitors to the Berlin Zoo, Fatou represents a living connection to the zoo's history spanning over six decades.
What's Next
Fatou's care will continue to be tailored to her specific needs. Her dietary routine excludes raspberries and blueberries due to her blood sugar requirements, and because most of her teeth have fallen out, zookeepers cook the majority of her food to facilitate eating. The zoo is likely to continue celebrating her birthday annually.