Gus the Polar Bear – In Memorium September 1, 2013
Posted by judylobo in photography.Tags: Arctic Svarlbard, Central Park Zoo, Gus the polar bear, photography, travel, Zoos
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A picture is worth a thousand words is an apt expression for this week’s photo montage dedicated to one amazing polar bear. Gus, the polar bear who lived at the Central Park Zoo, was euthanized this week, at age 27. Inoperable cancer took him away from us – but he left us (it is said over 20 million visitors had seen Gus) with wonderful memories and stories. I was lucky enough to know Gus for 24 of his 27 years. As an ambassador to a dwindling species he (and now deceased companions, Ida and Lily) represented the polar bear with dignity, grace and beauty. He always made me smile and there was never a day at the zoo that my camera was not focused on him. I miss him already. If these few photos are not enough for you, here is a link from a photo montage that I made last February 2nd, in honor of International Polar Bear Day. In memory of Gus, we have booked a trip to Arctic Svalbard to hopefully see polar bears in the wild. Here is a video I made back in 2007 or a younger, Gus enjoying the pool. 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RD0Q2E3zwf8 – 4.18.2007
While at the Zoo 
A lovely tribute, thanks Judy!
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lovely tribute and photos
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Am on a plane going to my mom in Florida. This is spectacular. A fitting tribute to a dear friend. Thank you
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Whi
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Gus will always be missed….and Ida and Lily. The Central Park Zoo was fortunate to have such wonderful Arctic ambassadors who touched the hearts of millions of zoo visitors. Your photos of Gus are beautiful. Thanks Judy.
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Beautiful tribute to a wonderful animal! My favorites have always been the underwater photos, especially the one you took of Gus and Ida several years ago!
The Florida Sistah!
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So beautiful! Thanks for sharing!
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A beautiful collection of photos and tribute of Gus who will be greatly missed. Thanks for sharing Judith
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Judy- Thanks for the photos and the video. Don’t know if the zoo will feel the same without Gus around! Ruth
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