"Koko"

Koko was a female western lowland gorilla known for her remarkable ability to use American Sign Language (ASL). Born in 1971 and raised in captivity, Koko learned over 1,000 signs and could understand spoken English. Her interactions with humans showcased her emotional depth and intelligence, as she demonstrated the ability to express feelings, thoughts, and requests. Koko became an important figure in animal psychology and communication studies, highlighting the cognitive capabilities of non-human animals. Her legacy continues to inspire discussions about animal welfare and the complexities of interspecies communication. Koko passed away in 2018.