BERLIN — The Berlin Zoo’s beloved Fatou, acclaimed as the world’s oldest gorilla in captivity, marked a significant milestone by celebrating her 69th birthday on Monday. The esteemed western lowland gorilla indulged in a special birthday feast of cherry tomatoes, beets, leeks, and lettuce.
Omitting the traditional birthday cake, zookeepers ensured Fatou’s health remained a priority, as sugary treats aren’t suitable for the aging primate.
Fatou’s journey to the Berlin Zoo dates back to 1959, when she arrived in what was then West Berlin. At the time, she was estimated to be around two years old, though her precise birthdate remains unknown. April 13 has been designated as her official birthday. While gorillas typically live between 35 to 40 years in the wild, they often surpass this lifespan in captivity.
In 2024, Fatou earned the distinction of becoming the zoo’s oldest resident following the passing of Ingo, a flamingo who was believed to be at least 75 years old and had been part of the zoo since 1955.
Fatou’s origins are traced back to the wilds of western Africa. According to Guinness World Records, her journey to the zoo began when a French sailor reportedly removed her from Africa and traded her in Marseille, France, to settle a bar tab. She was then sold to the zoo by a French animal trader.
Today, Fatou enjoys a peaceful life in her own enclosure, preferring solitude in her twilight years. Despite losing her teeth and experiencing some arthritis and hearing loss, she continues to capture the hearts of zoo visitors and staff alike.
But Christian Aust, the Berlin Zoo’s primate supervisor, said she’s friendly with the zookeepers, if still a bit stubborn.
At 69 years old, she’s earned it. Alles Gute zum Geburtstag, Fatou.
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