Donald Ducks first theatrical appearance was in the 1934 cartoon "The Wise Little Hen," which was part of the Silly Symphonies series of theatrical cartoon shorts. This cartoon was based on an American fable called "The Little Red Hen," and it featured Donald Duck in his trademark sailor shirt, cap, and bow-tie. Although "The Wise Little Hen" marked Donalds first film appearance, he actually first appeared in print years earlier in the 1931 storybook "The Adventures of Mickey Mouse," Disneys first book printed for retail sale, though with a different appearance. June 9, 1934, is officially recognized by the Walt Disney Company as Donalds birthday, and it is also the date when "The Wise Little Hen" was released.