Claude, the famous albino alligator at the California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco, has died at the age of 30. A necropsy revealed that he passed away due to advanced liver cancer, leaving staff, visitors, and fans across the world heartbroken.
Cause of Death Confirmed: Liver Cancer
According to the California Academy of Sciences, Claude had shown signs of illness over the last month. He was eating less and receiving antibiotics for what the team believed was an infection. He was scheduled for detailed imaging at UC Davis this week, but staff found him unresponsive early Tuesday morning.
A necropsy performed at UC Davis uncovered a large tumor in his liver. Steinhart Aquarium Senior Director Bart Shepherd said the discovery brought clarity but also sadness, explaining:
“At least we got a definite answer, and we knew there was nothing we could have done differently.”
Claude’s Journey From Farm to Fame
Claude was born on an alligator farm on September 15, 1995. He joined the Academy in 2008 when the museum reopened after major renovations. Since then, he became one of its biggest attractions, appearing in advertisements, merchandise, and the memories of millions of visitors.
A Beloved Mascot for 17 Years
Claude lived at the Academy for 17 years and quickly became the unofficial mascot of the museum. Visitors loved watching him during feedings, and countless children grew up learning about animals and science through his presence.
Community and Staff Mourning His Loss
As news of Claude’s death spread, tributes poured in from across the Bay Area and beyond. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi wrote:
“Claude was a cold-blooded icon who connected millions to the wonders of science. Our city won’t be the same without him!”
Families shared emotional memories. One Chronicle reader said his mother, now in memory care, met Claude 20 years ago and still remembers him vividly.
Another visitor shared how his granddaughter proudly wore a pin featuring Claude on her coat, adding:
“Who would suspect an albino alligator could bring such joy to so many people?”
Staff Heartbroken After Years of Care
Academy biologists who cared for Claude for nearly two decades received countless messages of sympathy. One staff member recalled seeing him just before his passing:
“He opened his eyes, looked at me, and swam to the other side—like he was saying, ‘Not you again.’”
A fruit arrangement even arrived at the Academy as a tribute, showing how deeply people cared for the beloved reptile.
The Oldest Known Albino Alligator
While a 30-year lifespan is considered middle-aged for a typical alligator, there is very little data about albino alligators. Claude was believed to be the oldest albino alligator ever recorded. His last full physical earlier this year showed normal blood tests and X-rays, making his sudden decline even more surprising.
What’s Next for the Alligator Exhibit?
The Academy has not yet decided the future of Claude’s swamp habitat, which is also home to three snapping turtles. Leadership says they will take time before making any decisions, considering their long history of caring for alligators.
Docent Greg Chapnick, who passed Claude’s exhibit many times per shift, shared his final message:
“Bon nuit, mon ami. I will miss you greatly.”
Conclusion
Claude was more than an exhibit—he was a symbol of wonder, curiosity, and the power of connecting people to wildlife. His impact reached far beyond the walls of the California Academy of Sciences, touching people worldwide. As the Academy prepares a memorial for early 2026, Claude’s memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved him.
