A treasured 104-year-old gopher tortoise named Gus is being showered with love and well wishes from supporters worldwide as he prepares for surgery. Jeff Gray, the Museum of Natural History manager in Halifax, where Gus resides, shared that numerous letters, cards, and artwork have poured in for Gus since the announcement of his upcoming surgery to remove a bladder stone. The museum’s social media platforms have been inundated with messages of support for Gus from individuals in Canada and beyond.
Gray expressed his gratitude for the outpouring of affection towards Gus, highlighting how people of all ages have formed special connections with the tortoise over the years. Gus, believed to be the oldest gopher tortoise globally, has been a fixture at the Museum of Natural History since 1942, captivating generations of visitors with his daily walks around the museum grounds.
During a recent walk, Gus’s admirers, including Becky Cooper and her son Spike, marveled at his charm and resilience. Visitors, like university students Carolyn Koslowski and Pia Pirzer, were amazed by Gus’s endearing nature, with Pirzer revealing that her mother had eagerly recommended a visit to see the iconic tortoise.
Gus’s veterinary team identified a bladder stone concern back in 2009, which has now prompted the need for surgery due to its growth and potential impact on surrounding tissues. Gray emphasized that while surgical procedures for tortoises are not uncommon, operating on a centenarian reptile like Gus presents unique challenges and risks. Despite these factors, the team is optimistic that the surgery will provide Gus with a comfortable and healthy future.
As Gus readies for his surgery, supporters are encouraged to continue sending their well wishes. Gus will temporarily pause his public walks to focus on his recovery, with his last stroll scheduled for Monday before the surgery on Tuesday.