http://www.reuters.com/article/asiaTopNews/idUSIndia-30288120071102
U.S. researchers say goodbye to beloved chimp Thu Nov 1, 2007 11:01pm EDT
By JoAnne Allen
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Washoe, the chimpanzee researchers said was the first non-human to acquire a human language, was being remembered by some as a dear friend and an inspiration. (They played Koko folks... for food pellets.)
Washoe, who died on Tuesday night at age 42 after a brief illness, first learned American Sign Language in a research project in Nevada, according to the Chimpanzee and Human Communication Institute (CHCI) where she had lived since 1980.
Founders of the chimpanzee research institute on the campus of Central Washington University in Ellensburg, Washington, said Washoe was a treasured member of their family.
A memorial service will be held on Nov. 12. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - KOKO's Higher Power Loved HIM too!
"For though I should walk in the midst of the shadow of death, I will fear no evils, for thou art with me. Thy rod and thy staff, they have comforted me."
I wonder how they conditioned KOKO with the rod?