Celebrating a Milestone: Fatou the Gorilla Turns 68 at Berlin Zoo

Fatou, recognized as the oldest gorilla in the world, recently celebrated her 68th birthday at the Berlin Zoo, where she has resided since the age of two. This special occasion was marked with a delightful array of treats including melons, strawberries, plums, and blueberries, catered to her specific dietary needs.

While gorillas in the wild typically live to about 35 years, those in captivity often reach up to 50 years of age. Fatou, who requires softer foods due to her dental condition, usually follows a diet that emphasizes vegetables over fruits, which are limited due to their sugar content. In their natural habitat, gorillas primarily consume a vegetarian diet consisting of leaves, herbs, roots, and fruits.

Fatou came to the Berlin Zoo in 1959, making her one of the few remaining gorillas with origins in the wild. Although her exact birth date is unknown, the zoo has designated April 13 as her official birthday for several years now. Visitors to the zoo will have the opportunity to witness a birthday celebration this Sunday, where Fatou will receive an additional surprise.

As the largest and heaviest of the great ape species, gorillas are currently classified as endangered, primarily due to habitat destruction caused by deforestation and mining activities, along with illegal hunting practices.