On April 13, 2024, the Berlin Zoo hosted an event marking the 69th birthday of Fatu, the world’s oldest gorilla. A special treat was prepared for the animal, including cherry tomatoes, beets, leeks, and lettuce leaves.
Fatu, a representative of western lowland gorillas, was brought to Europe in 1959 at approximately two years old, with April 13, 1957, officially recognized as her birthdate due to the lack of precise records. In the wild, gorillas typically live around 35-40 years, while in captivity, this lifespan is often significantly extended. In 2024, Fatu became the zoo’s oldest resident following the death of Ingo the flamingo, estimated to be at least 75 years old. The bird had been at the zoo since 1955.
According to the Guinness World Records, Fatu was likely born in the wild in West Africa. One account suggests that a French sailor removed the animal from the continent, trading her in Marseille to settle a bar debt. She was subsequently acquired by a French zoo. Currently housed in a separate enclosure, Fatu avoids interactions with other members of her species. Due to her advanced age, she has lost her teeth, exhibits signs of arthritis, and has hearing issues. Christian Aust, Berlin Zoo’s primate keeper, highlighted the animal’s friendliness towards the staff while acknowledging her occasional stubbornness.