Join the Celebration: Fatou, the World’s Oldest Gorilla, Turns 68 at Berlin Zoo!

Fatou the Gorilla: A Celebration of Longevity

Fatou, the world’s oldest living gorilla, is gearing up for her 68th birthday at the Berlin Zoo. She’s been a beloved resident since coming to the zoo in 1959, just two years after her birth.

As she approaches this special day, the zoo is making sure she is well-celebrated. Keepers have prepared a delightful basket filled with soft fruits and veggies. This care is especially important since Fatou has lost her teeth over the years. Vet André Schüle emphasizes that she receives excellent care, ensuring she lives comfortably.

Living in her own cozy space, Fatou enjoys her peace away from the active younger gorillas at the zoo, who are between 4 and 39 years old. Schüle points out that Fatou deserves this tranquility at her age, allowing her to relax and enjoy her days.

Last year, Fatou became the oldest resident of the Berlin Zoo after the passing of Ingo, a flamingo believed to be over 75 years old and a long-time resident since 1955. Such long lives in captivity underscore the significant care provided by zoos like Berlin’s, along with the close bonds formed between animals and their keepers.

Interestingly, the average lifespan of a gorilla in the wild is about 35 years, but they can live into their 50s in captivity. Fatou stands out not just for her longevity but for her role in educating visitors about gorilla conservation efforts.

Recent surveys show that many people are now more aware of the importance of wildlife conservation, thanks to stories like Fatou’s. Social media is abuzz with tributes and congratulations for her milestone, highlighting how she has touched the hearts of many around the world.

As Fatou celebrates her birthday this weekend, it’s a reminder of the joy that wildlife brings to our lives and the importance of caring for our natural world. For more information on gorilla conservation, you can check out the World Wildlife Fund.

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environment,Climate,World news,Science,André Schüle