Quote:
Originally Posted by troutman
Passing of a Patriarch
http://www.calgaryzoo.com/blog/passi...a-patriarch-2/
We are deeply saddened to share that silverback gorilla, Kakinga, passed away Saturday night at the age of 37. Often called the zoo’s gentle giant, Kakinga was an exceptional silverback; a kind, loving, protective and diligent leader.
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When I was... four? Five? I was at the zoo and watching the gorillas in their old home in the Primate house. Kakinga was up against the glass in his enclosure and I, being a kid, was making faces at him: sticking out my tongue, putting my fingers in my mouth and so on.
Amazingly, he made a face back. And then I made another face at him, and he made one back, and we went on like this maybe three or four more times before he lost interest and walked away.
It's one of the most vivid memories of my childhood and a huge part of why I think zoos - good zoos - are so valuable.
Farewell, Kakinga, may your fruit always be ripe, and the jungle endless.