14/05/2026
Today is Throwback Thursday, so it’s time for another Project Khumbula feature.
Western lowland gorilla Joe, or Little Joe as he’s also known, was easily distinguishable by his bright red hair and “grumpy” facial expressions. Joe was the epitome of cool, calm, and collected, and he simply could not be ruffled (unless you were an onion because he absolutely wasn’t a fan). He was known as “The Professor” because he was so incredibly intelligent and often seemed to be studying everything from his enrichment to zoo guests and anything in between, that studious face likely contributing to his “grumpy” appearance. One thing I appreciated about Joe is that he was never afraid to look directly at the camera — making eye contact is considered disrespectful in gorilla culture, but Joe didn’t care. He’d look right at you, not with disrespect, but simply because he was curious about you. I’d oftentimes find myself averting my gaze to show HIM respect, but he never seemed to mind one way or the other. I loved that about him. Joe was crucial to helping younger gorillas acclimate to the bachelor pad, and was a formidable buddy to Jontu. Together, they were pillars for teaching younger gorillas how to walk the walk.
Joe passed away on May 4, 2024, at the age of 26, in his sleep from a heart attack. Heart disease is as common among primates as it is humans, and he had been receiving top-notch care for it. He will be remembered for his presence and personality always, that gentle gaze, and his calm leadership.
Nest in peace, Joe-Joe. Sizokukhumbula.
