Dear Koko Supporter,

Watch the above video to see Koko’s understanding of a phone evolve from childhood to adulthood. 

In the video, we first see 4-year-old Koko curiously interact with a phone but without fully grasping its purpose. 

By age 21, Koko demonstrates a deeper understanding of this human communication tool.  She even hands the phone to Penny, showing her awareness of its importance in connecting people (on the other end of the line). 

Then, at age 28, Koko participates in the world’s first interspecies “web chat” on AOL.  Penny communicates directly with AOL staff via a red phone, with Koko by her side. 

With millions of people connected online watching the transcript appear on their screen, and suggesting questions via texting, the AOL staff pose selected questions to Koko by asking Penny, who repeats the question in both spoken English and sign language. 

Koko responds in sign language and with vocalizations — but also asks to hold the phone and listen.  She tries to respond directly by producing a loud huff, and later a purr.

Koko’s interactions with the phone offer a fascinating glimpse into how her unique experiences shaped her personality. 

We are so grateful to have learned from Koko! As a result people see gorillas for who they are: loving, kind, and intelligent beings. Seeing this, I’ve come to realize why gorillas deserve the same freedoms we cherish — where they can live free in their natural habitat, safe from harm!

Conservation through Communication

The Gorilla Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
Our Federal Tax ID is: 942-38-6151