Oldest captive gorilla turns 53 at Ohio zoo

[December 23, 2009]  COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) -- At an Ohio zoo, a noteworthy senior citizen has turned another year older.

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium on Tuesday celebrated the 53rd birthday of Colo. The International Species Information System says she was the first western lowland gorilla born in a zoo and is now the oldest gorilla in captivity.

Keepers had a birthday cake for her and treats for the zoo's gorilla family.

Colo has lived at the Columbus Zoo since her birth on Dec. 22, 1956, when she weighed in at 3 pounds, 5 ounces. Her name was chosen in a contest and is short for Columbus, Ohio.

The zoo says she suffers from arthritis but her heart appeared strong when tests were done this year.

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On the Net:

Columbus Zoo: http://www.columbuszoo.org/

[Associated Press]

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