The California Academy of Sciences announced with “heavy hearts” on Monday that Claude, the beloved albino American alligator who became an international icon and the unofficial mascot of San Francisco, has passed away at the age of 30.
Claude, known for his unique white coloring caused by a lack of pigmentation, captivated millions of visitors during his 17-year residence at the Academy’s Steinhart Aquarium.
A Life of Quiet Charisma
Born on September 15, 1995, in Louisiana, Claude arrived at the newly reopened Steinhart Aquarium in 2008 and quickly became one of its most popular animals.
- Size and Diet: The male alligator weighed approximately 300 pounds and maintained a diet of roughly 1,250 grams of frozen rats each week.
- Swamp Habitat: He lived in the museum’s swamp habitat alongside snapping turtles named Donatello, Raphael, and Morla. His original alligator companion, Bonnie, had to be moved in 2009 after she accidentally bit off one of Claude’s toes.
- Unforgettable Moments: Claude had several famous moments that cemented his popularity, including one where he famously swallowed a ballet slipper that fell into his enclosure, requiring a special retrieval tool to be shipped overnight from the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago.
An Ambassador and Icon
The California Academy of Sciences emphasized that Claude was far more than just an attraction; he was a global symbol.
“Claude was an iconic Academy resident who many visitors formed deep connections with during his 17 year tenure… He showed us the power of ambassador animals to connect people to nature and stoke curiosity to learn more about the world around us,” the Academy stated on Instagram.
Claude was regularly celebrated as the unofficial mascot of the Academy and San Francisco. He received consistent fan mail, gifts, and artwork from fans around the world, most recently celebrating his 30th birthday in September with month-long festivities.
Health Decline and Investigation
The Academy confirmed that Claude’s health had been declining in recent weeks, which led his dedicated care team to move him behind the scenes for constant monitoring and specialized care.
- Suspected Illness: His appetite had diminished, and he was undergoing treatment for a suspected infection at the time of his death.
- Necropsy Planned: Despite receiving the “best possible care” from the Steinhart Aquarium veterinarian and animal care teams, the outcome was heartbreaking. A full exam and necropsy will now be conducted at the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine to determine the precise cause of death.
The Academy has announced plans to hold a public memorial for Claude in the near future and will share the details soon, allowing his global fanbase to bid farewell to the beloved reptile.