Gus is a 103-year-old gopher tortoise living at the Nova Scotia Museum of Natural History and is considered to be an icon of Halifax. He is believed to be the world’s oldest living gopher tortoise.
Gus can be found on supervised walks through the museum halls, and is no longer allowed to be touched by visitors. During nice weather, Gus will roam in the backyard of the museum. His favourite foods are blueberries, bananas, and romaine lettuce. He also loves grasses and clovers, as well as fresh dandelions.
Gus received his name in 1952. He is named after John Augustus Gilhen, who devoted his time to helping at the museum throughout the 1950s. Gus had a particular fondness for Gilhen, who would give him snacks.