World’s Oldest Gorilla Turns 69

Fatou, a legendary western lowland gorilla residing at the Berlin Zoo, has officially celebrated her 69th birthday, solidifying her status as the oldest known gorilla in the world.

Having surpassed the typical wild lifespan of 35 years by nearly double, Fatou’s longevity has earned her a prestigious spot in the Guinness Book of Records.

To manage the ailments associated with her advanced age, such as osteoarthritis and the loss of her teeth, zoo staff provide specialized care including a private enclosure for peace and a diet of soft, cooked vegetables. Her keepers affectionately describe her as an “introverted granny” who remains the boss of her exhibit, proving that with age comes the privilege of being pampered.

Her birthday celebration drew crowds of onlookers eager to witness a living piece of natural history and celebrate the incredible bonds between animals and their human caregivers.