Claude, a distinctive albino alligator cherished by admirers globally, passed away on Tuesday, as confirmed by The California Academy of Sciences located in San Francisco. He had reached the age of 30.
TL;DR
- Claude, a beloved albino alligator, died at age 30 at the California Academy of Sciences.
- He was a cherished symbol of San Francisco, captivating visitors for 17 years.
- Claude, born in Louisiana, was one of fewer than 200 albino alligators worldwide.
- A public commemoration is planned, and the University of California, Davis will examine him.
The science institution located in Golden Gate Park draws many school groups from The Bay Area and visitors from abroad, with numerous youngsters over time departing with a small Claude plush toy as a souvenir. Serving as an informal symbol for both the museum and the city, Claude was featured in a publication for children and in advertisements displayed at transit stops.
The museum stated that the alligator figure, which captured affection for 17 years in San Francisco, possessed a “quiet charisma”. They've also indicated that fewer than 200 albino alligators exist globally.
“Claude showed us the power of ambassador animals to connect people to nature and stoke curiosity to learn more about the world around us,” it said.
Claude was born in 1995 at a Louisiana alligator ranch, and he arrived at the Academy in 2008. He was born with albinism, a genetic alteration that caused him to appear white. His eyes seemed pinkish-red due to blood vessels that could be seen through his transparent irises.
Albino alligators have a short lifespan in their natural habitat, yet American alligators can reach an age of 70 years when kept in captivity. The museum celebrated Claude's 30th birthday in September with various events, addresses, and a unique alligator birthday cake composed of fish and ice.
Claude, measuring 10 feet (3 meters) and weighing 300 pounds (136 kilograms), recently received care for a presumed infection after exhibiting a diminished appetite. The University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine plans to examine Claude to ascertain a potential reason for his demise.
A public commemoration for Claude is scheduled at the museum; in the interim, individuals are invited to share recollections of Claude and dispatch notes to his caretakers at the California Academy of Sciences.
