A cherished gopher tortoise named Gus, who is 104 years old, is being showered with affection and well wishes from supporters worldwide as he prepares for an upcoming surgery. Jeff Gray, the manager of the Museum of Natural History in Halifax where Gus resides, shared that numerous letters, get-well cards, and artworks have been sent to Gus since the announcement of his surgery to remove a bladder stone scheduled for Tuesday. The museum’s social media platforms have also been flooded with thousands of messages from well-wishers in Canada and beyond.
Gray expressed his gratitude for the outpouring of support, highlighting the universal connection people have with Gus, recounting how visitors who met Gus as children now return with their own children and grandchildren, creating a nostalgic bond that resonates with many.
Gus, believed to be the world’s oldest gopher tortoise, has been a fixture at the Museum of Natural History since 1942 when he was purchased for $5 in Florida. Visitors can often accompany Gus on his daily walks around the museum, where he enjoys the outdoors in warm weather and explores indoor exhibits during inclement conditions.
Following his surgery, Gus will temporarily retreat from public walks to recover in private within the museum for several weeks. Gray shared that the veterinary team had identified a bladder stone in Gus back in 2009, and recent scans indicated its growth, which now necessitates surgical intervention to prevent discomfort and potential organ complications.
Despite the inherent risks, the surgical team is optimistic about Gus’s prognosis, given his robust health. Gray highlighted the longevity benefits of captive environments for tortoises compared to the hazards they face in the wild, emphasizing the importance of secure habitats, proper care, and regular veterinary attention in extending their lifespan.
As Gus gears up for his surgery, visitors continue to flock to the museum to catch a glimpse of the beloved tortoise, showcasing their admiration and hope for his successful recovery. Gus’s final public stroll before the surgery is scheduled for Monday, maintaining his endearing presence and inspiring a community of well-wishers rooting for his well-being.