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Claude, San Francisco’s Beloved Albino Alligator, Dies at 30

Claude, a rare albino alligator and long-time favorite at the California Academy of Sciences, has died at 30. Hatched in Louisiana in 1995, he lived at the San Francisco museum from 2008 and became an informal mascot, inspiring toys, a children’s book and public affection. The Academy said fewer than 200 albino alligators are known worldwide; UC Davis veterinarians will examine Claude to help determine a cause of death. A public memorial is planned.

02:24 PM, 12/03/2025Culture
Claude, San Francisco’s Beloved Albino Alligator, Dies at 30

Claude, a rare albino alligator who became a beloved fixture at the California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco, died Tuesday at age 30, the museum announced. The animal captivated visitors for years with a calm, unmistakable presence and served informally as a mascot for the museum and the city.

The Academy, located in Golden Gate Park and a popular destination for school groups and international visitors, sold miniature Claude plush toys for years; many children left clutching one. Claude also appeared in a children’s book and on transit advertising around the city.

Life and appearance

Claude hatched in 1995 on an alligator farm in Louisiana and was transferred to the California Academy of Sciences in 2008. Born with albinism, a genetic condition that reduces pigmentation, he had white skin and pinkish-red eyes caused by visible blood vessels beneath clear irises. The museum described him as having a "quiet charisma" that resonated with visitors of all ages.

Health, age and legacy

Claude measured about 10 feet (3 meters) and weighed roughly 300 pounds (136 kilograms). Albino alligators rarely survive long in the wild because they are more vulnerable to predators and sun damage, but American alligators often live several decades in human care — sometimes up to 70 years. The Academy celebrated Claude’s 30th birthday in September with speeches and a special alligator cake made of fish and ice.

In recent weeks Claude showed a reduced appetite and received treatment for a suspected infection. The University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine will examine him to help determine a possible cause of death.

"Claude showed us the power of ambassador animals to connect people to nature and stoke curiosity to learn more about the world around us," the museum said.

The Academy noted that fewer than 200 albino alligators are known worldwide, underscoring Claude’s rarity. The museum plans to hold a public memorial; in the meantime, it is inviting visitors and supporters to share memories and send messages to Claude’s care team.

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