#colo the gorilla

December 22 1956,  Colo, the first gorilla to be bred in captivity, is born at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium in Ohio.

Colo is a western gorilla widely known as the first gorilla to be born in captivity anywhere in the world and as the oldest gorilla in captivity in the world. Colo was born at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium to Millie Christina (mother) and Baron Macombo (father). She was briefly called Cuddles before a contest was held to officially name her. The contest was won by a Columbus native, Rita Cochren. Colo’s name is derived from the place of her birth, Columbus,Ohio.

Colo celebrates her 59th birthday today.