Franklin Park Zoo Is Throwing A Gorilla Sized Birthday Party For Little Joe

By Brianne Barrett

Boston, MA - Set off on a tropical excursion during February school vacation week - bring your family to Franklin Park Zoo for an ape-themed getaway! Little Joe turns 16, so Franklin Park Zoo will celebrate his birthday all week!

Little Joe is the largest male of the Franklin Park Zoo gorillas. Even though he is so large, he is very gentle and patient with all of the gorillas especially Kimani. He likes juice of all kinds including apple, cranberry and grape.

Little Joe gets along well with the other gorillas, especially Okie. Little Joe and Okie have been together since they were young. He is curious and intelligent. He has proven the easiest gorilla to train and the quickest learner.

Little Joe
Birthdate: Feb. 6, 1993
How long at ZNE: He moved to Franklin Park Zoo from the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo in September 1997 with Okpara (Okie).

Activities include:
                       
* First 25 visitors per day receive a special gift
* Sign a large birthday card for Little Joe
* Enjoy gorilla-shaped birthday cake (on Monday, February 16)
* Opportunity to participate in a variety of creative and educational ape-related activities
* And, many other surprises throughout the week!           
 .
WHEN:          February 16 – 20
                        11AM – 3PM
(Go Ape Week activities happening every day!)

Monday, February 16
11AM
Enjoy complimentary “gorilla” birthday cake by Montilio’s Baking Company

TICKETS:     Events are free with regular paid admission
                        Franklin Park Zoo Admission: $12.00 for adults; $7.00 for children 2-12;
                        Children under 2 are free.
                       
WHERE:       Tropical Forest
                        Franklin Park Zoo
                        One Franklin Park Road
                        Boston, MA

FOR ADDITIONAL
INFORMATION:     617-541-LION or visit www.franklinparkzoo.org