Oldest Zoo Gorilla Turns 56 Years Old In Ohio


Columbus, OH – The first gorilla ever to be born inside a zoo has officially turned 56 years old. The Association of Zoos and Aquariums has confirmed that Colo is the oldest gorilla in any zoo on the planet.

The Independent reports that Colo celebrated her birthday at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium by opening presents and gorging herself on the numerous treats zookeepers had prepared for the occasion.

In addition to giving the gorilla her favorite food — tomatoes, in case you were wondering — staff and friends of Colo gathered around the mother-of-three to sing “Happy Birthday.”

The Associated Press reports that the gorilla was born in Columbus back in 1956. She reportedly has more than two dozen descendants living in zoos all across the country.

Although Colo has the distinction of being the first gorilla to be born at a zoo, she is also known as one of the world’s luckiest primates. ABC News reports that many people believe Colo is a “lucky” and “physic” gorilla since she has successfully predicted the NCAA Men’s Final Four and the champion in last year’s tournament.

In fact, the folks at Good Morning America decided to have the gorilla pick Mega Millions numbers when the jackpot was at a staggering $540 million last may. After giving Colo some onions and turnips marked with numbers, the gorilla made her selection.

Colo’s selections were 9, 12, 21, 31 and 41. The Mega Ball, represented by the turnip, was 9. Unfortunately, the gorilla wasn’t able to predict the winning numbers this time around.

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Wikipedia explains that Colo was rejected by her mother at birth. In order to ensure the little gorilla had a long life, zookeepers decided to nurse the baby with a bottle. It would appear the staff at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium have done their jobs exceptionally well.

For more information about the oldest zoo gorilla, stop by the zoo’s official website.

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