San Francisco is mourning the loss of a unique and cherished resident after Claude, the celebrated albino alligator, passed away at the age of 30. The California Academy of Sciences announced the reptile's death on Tuesday, following treatment for a suspected infection.
A City's Unlikely Mascot
Claude, with his striking white scales, served as a de facto mascot for the academy and the city for nearly two decades. He arrived at the San Francisco museum in 2008 and quickly became a treasured symbol, captivating visitors with his quiet presence. His fame extended far beyond the museum's walls; he was the subject of a children's book and regularly received fan mail and gifts from admirers across the globe.
The museum released a heartfelt statement, noting: "He brought joy to millions of people at the museum and across the world, his quiet charisma captivating the hearts of fans of all ages." Officials credited Claude with demonstrating the power of ambassador animals to connect people with nature and inspire curiosity about the natural world.
The Life of an 'Iconic Swamp King'
Claude's story began at a Louisiana alligator farm, where he hatched on 15 September 1999. His rare albinism and associated poor eyesight meant survival in the wild would have been unlikely. After spending his first 13 years at a Florida zoo, he made the journey to San Francisco.
As one of fewer than 200 albino alligators worldwide, Claude lived what the academy described as "an enviable life." He received enrichment activities, world-class veterinary care, and constant adulation. In September 2024, the institution celebrated his 30th birthday with a month of festivities, honouring him as their "iconic swamp king." Earlier this year, the academy even launched a 24/7 livestream so fans could watch his daily routines.
A Heartbreaking Outcome and Lasting Legacy
In recent weeks, keepers noticed Claude had a waning appetite and moved him behind the scenes for specialised care. Despite these efforts, he did not recover. "This heartbreaking outcome is not what we hoped for," the academy stated.
A full examination and necropsy will be conducted at the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine to determine the precise cause of death. The museum acknowledged the profound sense of loss, stating: "We know that the magnitude of this loss will be felt in proportion to how beloved Claude was by so many across the Bay Area and beyond."
The California Academy of Sciences plans to hold a public memorial in the near future, allowing the community to say farewell to the extraordinary reptile who called San Francisco home.
