A treasured 104-year-old gopher tortoise named Gus is being showered with affection and well wishes from admirers worldwide in anticipation of his upcoming surgery. Jeff Gray, the overseer of the Museum of Natural History in Halifax, where Gus calls home, mentioned that numerous letters, cards, and artworks have been sent to Gus following 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 well-wishers across Canada and beyond.
Gray expressed his delight at the widespread connection people have with Gus, citing instances of visitors who had met Gus as children and have since returned with their own offspring. Gus, believed to be the oldest living gopher tortoise, has been a fixture at the Museum of Natural History since 1942 when he was bought for $5 in Florida. His estimated birth year is 1922.
Visitors to the museum can typically join Gus on his daily walk around the premises, where he enjoys the outdoors in warm weather and explores indoor exhibits on colder or rainy days. Known for basking under a heat lamp in his enclosure, Gus will be taking a hiatus from his public strolls to recuperate privately after surgery.
During one of his recent walks, onlookers watched Gus relish strawberries, lettuce, and a banana. Among them was Becky Cooper and her son Spike, who were captivated by Gus’s charm. Another visitor, Hannah Doktor, expressed her unwavering admiration for Gus, describing him as someone she would stand up for.
Gus’s veterinary team identified a bladder stone in 2009, which has since grown and is now causing discomfort. Technological advancements now allow for the stone’s removal through a minimally invasive procedure, unlike the previous method that required drilling into his shell. Gray emphasized the importance of the surgery to prevent further complications and ensure Gus’s well-being.
Despite the risks associated with surgery, the museum staff and veterinary team are optimistic about Gus’s prognosis. His daily walks will continue until his surgery on Tuesday, after which he will undergo a period of recovery away from the public eye. Gray highlighted the longevity of captive tortoises compared to those in the wild, pointing out the benefits of a secure environment, proper care, and regular veterinary attention in prolonging their lifespan.
Gus’s surgery marks a significant milestone in veterinary care for elderly reptiles, underscoring the dedication to ensuring his comfort and health in the years ahead.