BERLIN – The Berlin Zoo’s most distinguished resident marked a major milestone Monday as Fatou, the oldest gorilla in captivity worldwide, turned 69 years old with a special vegetable celebration.
The western lowland gorilla enjoyed a birthday spread featuring cherry tomatoes, beets, leeks, and lettuce – though zoo staff skipped the traditional birthday cake since sugar poses health risks for the elderly primate.
Fatou first came to what was then West Berlin back in 1959, estimated to be around 2 years old upon her arrival. Since her exact birth date remains unknown, zoo officials designated April 13 as her official birthday. While gorillas typically survive 35-40 years in their natural habitat, those in captivity often live considerably longer.
The distinguished gorilla claimed the title of the zoo’s senior-most resident in 2024 after the passing of Ingo the flamingo. The bird had reached at least 75 years old and called the zoo home since 1955.
According to Guinness World Records, Fatou’s journey began in the wilds of western Africa before a French sailor reportedly removed her from the continent and traded her to settle his bar bill in Marseille, France. A French animal dealer subsequently purchased and sold her to the Berlin Zoo.
Now in her golden years, Fatou occupies her own private living space and maintains distance from the zoo’s other gorillas. Age has taken its toll – she’s lost her teeth and deals with mild arthritis and hearing difficulties.
However, Christian Aust, the Berlin Zoo’s primate supervisor, notes she maintains friendly relationships with her caretakers, though she retains some of her stubborn nature.
At 69 years old, she’s certainly earned the right to be set in her ways. Alles Gute zum Geburtstag, Fatou.
