Who Was Willie B the Gorilla
Willie B was a western lowland gorilla who became one of the most recognized gorillas in the United States. He lived at Zoo Atlanta for most of his life and was known for his role in gorilla conservation and education.
How Did Willie B the Gorilla Die
Willie B died on February 2, 2000, at Zoo Atlanta. The official cause of death was heart failure, a common condition in aging gorillas. He was elderly for a gorilla and had been receiving veterinary care in his later years.
Willie B’s Legacy and Impact
Willie B is remembered for improving public awareness of gorillas and supporting habitat conservation efforts. His story is frequently cited in discussions about primate care and zoo-based education programs.
For more background on Willie B and Zoo Atlanta’s gorilla program, see the zoo’s official history page at zooatlanta.org/animals/gorillas.
