Koko the 'talking' gorilla specifically asked for a pet cat for her birthday
Koko the gorilla is best known for being a sign-language speaking ape, believed by her handlers to know more than 1,000 signs. Her most humanizing characteristic has been the love and affection she has demonstrated toward her pet cats. Koko was first allowed a pet cat in 1985 after she specially requested one for her birthday.
She was even allowed to choose a kitten from a litter; a gray male Manx that she named "All Ball." Koko's gentle care and affection for All Ball was astounding to those on the outside who had never seen another animal treat another species as a pet before, but to Koko's handlers, who knew her well, it wasn't surprising at all.
Koko the gorilla is best known for being a sign-language speaking ape, believed by her handlers to know more than 1,000 signs. Her most humanizing characteristic has been the love and affection she has demonstrated toward her pet cats. Koko was first allowed a pet cat in 1985 after she specially requested one for her birthday.
She was even allowed to choose a kitten from a litter; a gray male Manx that she named "All Ball." Koko's gentle care and affection for All Ball was astounding to those on the outside who had never seen another animal treat another species as a pet before, but to Koko's handlers, who knew her well, it wasn't surprising at all.
Sadly, later that same year All Ball was struck by a car and killed while exploring the world outside of Koko's enclosure. Koko's mourning process after being told of the cat's death showed just how deep her emotional bond to the cat was. The following year, Koko was given two kittens. She named them "Lipstick" and "Smokey."
Image taken from:
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/earth/wildlife/8765172/An-audience-with-Koko-the-talking-gorilla.html
Koko Gets a Kitty Visit (YouTube)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ZgJ3TzB38E
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