Koko the sign language gorilla has died at 46

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Koko, the renowned sign language gorilla, passed away at the age of 46. Born on July 4, 1971, at the San Francisco Zoo, she was initially named “Hanabiko.” Animal psychologist Francine “Penny” Patterson began teaching Koko sign language in 1972, leading to her ability to understand and use hundreds of English words. The Gorilla Foundation, established by Patterson in 1986, played a pivotal role in Koko's education and public engagement.

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This discussion is beneficial for animal behaviorists, conservationists, educators in animal communication, and anyone interested in the intersection of language and cognition in primates.

Greg Bernhardt
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What an amazing life and story!
http://www.newsweek.com/koko-gorilla-sign-language-death-988302

Koko was born at San Francisco Zoo on July 4 1971 and was named “Hanabiko,” Japanese for “fireworks child.” Animal psychologist Francine “Penny” Patterson began teaching Koko to sign while she was a graduate student in 1972. Patterson and others eventually taught Koko to use and understand hundreds of English words. Patterson started The Gorilla Foundation in 1986 with biologist Ronald Cohn and the late Barbara F Hiller, after moving Koko to Stanford in 1974.
 
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I still remember watching a documentary many years ago about her. At first I was skeptical about her abilities and understanding level, but then in one part they showed her running across the compound headed for the bathroom area, and she was shaking her hands as she ran. Turns out it was the sign for "hurry, hurry!" LOL :smile:

http://www.lifeprint.com/asl101/gifs-animated/hurry.gif

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This was a pretty good documentary if you have netflix
https://www.netflix.com/title/80172471
 
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