World’s oldest gorilla in captivity Fatou celebrates 69th birthday with special diet

Fatou, the world’s oldest gorilla living in captivity, has celebrated her 69th birthday with a specially prepared meal tailored to her age and health needs.

Fatou, who lives at the Berlin Zoo, marked the milestone on April 13 with a basket of vegetables instead of her traditional birthday cake. Zoo staff opted for a healthier menu to avoid sugar, serving items like beets, broccoli and lettuce.

The change reflects Fatou’s advanced age, as caretakers have adjusted her diet over the years to better support her health. While she previously enjoyed birthday cakes, including one for her 65th birthday in 2022, recent celebrations have focused on more nutritious options.

Fatou has lived at the Berlin Zoo since 1959 and is considered the oldest gorilla under human care in the world. Her official birthday is observed on April 13, as her exact birth date is unknown.

Her longevity is especially remarkable given that gorillas in the wild typically live around 35 to 40 years.

Zoo officials also highlighted Fatou’s importance beyond her age, describing her as a symbol of conservation for her critically endangered species. Her care is closely monitored and adapted to meet both her physical and mental needs as she continues to age.

Despite her age-related challenges, Fatou remains a beloved figure at the zoo and an important ambassador for wildlife conservation, drawing attention to the threats facing gorillas in the wild.