A treasured 104-year-old gopher tortoise named Gus is being showered with affection and good wishes from well-wishers worldwide in anticipation of his upcoming surgery. Jeff Gray, the curator of the Museum of Natural History in Halifax, where Gus resides, revealed that hundreds of letters, cards, and artworks have been sent to the tortoise since the announcement of his surgery to remove a bladder stone. The museum’s social media platforms have also been inundated with thousands of messages from individuals in Canada and beyond, expressing their support for Gus.
Gray expressed his gratitude for the outpouring of love towards Gus, highlighting the emotional connection people have with the tortoise, especially those who have fond memories of visiting him with their families over the years. Gus holds the distinction of being the oldest gopher tortoise globally and has been a fixture at the Museum of Natural History since 1942 when he was acquired for $5 in Florida, believed to have been born in 1922.
Visitors to the museum often accompany Gus on his daily walks, where he enjoys strolling through the grassy outdoor area in warm weather and exploring indoor exhibits during inclement conditions. He is frequently spotted basking under a heat lamp in his sandy enclosure. As Gus prepares for surgery, his public walks will be temporarily suspended, allowing him to recover in privacy for several weeks.
During one of his recent walks, onlookers observed Gus relishing strawberries, lettuce, and a banana. Among the spectators were Becky Cooper and her son, Spike, who marveled at Gus’s charm and expressed their admiration for the resilient tortoise. Meanwhile, university students Carolyn Koslowski and Pia Pirzer, visiting from Germany, were captivated by Gus’s endearing demeanor, with Pirzer sharing that her mother had eagerly recommended a visit to see the beloved tortoise after researching Halifax’s attractions.
Gray explained that bladder stones are a common issue in tortoises, and while the surgery carries inherent risks, Gus’s medical team is optimistic about the positive outcome it can offer him. Despite his advanced age, Gus is in excellent health, indicating a strong likelihood of a successful recovery. The surgery, scheduled for Tuesday, will mark a significant milestone as it involves a delicate procedure on a reptile over a century old.
Gray emphasized the importance of providing a secure environment for captive tortoises to ensure their well-being, contrasting the challenges faced by wild tortoises due to human activities. While surgery always presents risks, the museum staff and veterinary team are committed to offering Gus the best chance for a healthy and comfortable future. Gus will continue his regular walks until Monday, with his last public stroll before surgery set for that day.