Famous ‘talking gorilla’ is dead

TRIBUTES: Koko & Penny A GORILLA called Koko who could allegedly talk using sign language has died aged 46.

During an internet chat in 1998 – billed as the world’s first inter-species talk – she is claimed to have said: “I like drinks.”

The Gorilla Foundation in California issued a statement yesterday saying they were “sad to announce the passing of our beloved Koko”.

They said lowland gorilla Koko had touched the lives of millions as “an icon for inter-species communication and empathy”.

The statement added: “She was beloved and will be deeply missed.”

Koko was born at San Francisco Zoo where Dr Penny Patterson taught her sign language.

While some scientists questioned the claims about her, the gorilla still became an ambassador for her species.

Sad Jess Cameron wrote on Facebook: “This news just breaks my heart. I was fascinated with Koko.

“She taught me so much about love, kindness, respect for animals, and our planet.”

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