Koko

A reporter is interviewing Dr. Patterson about Koko, a talking gorilla.

After only 36 months, Koko could use 184 signs.

Dr. Patterson also uses spoken language with Koko.

Dr. Patterson: Not at all! Koko has taught us that gorillas are intelligent enough to learn sign language.

For example, Koko was asked to choose a house or a tree for shelter from the rain.

Researchers at the Gorilla Foundation have to spell out words like "c-a-n-d-y" and "g-u-m" when Koko is nearby.

Because of this, Koko can understand hundreds of spoken words.

Koko herself cannot use spoken language, but she loves to listen to people's conversations.

Koko chose the tree.

Koko is not an ordinary gorilla.