Pour one out for this rarity of an animal. Claude, a rare albino alligator turned something of a reptile celebrity, has died at 30. The alligator had been living at the California Academy of Sciences for the past 17 years.
Claude wowed visitors thanks to his unique look. Sadly, the alligator passed away after developing an infection. Despite the staff's attempts to treat the infection, there was nothing they could do. Speaking with People, the organization confirmed the death of the animal.
"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," the California Academy of Sciences wrote in a press release. "Claude showed us the power of ambassador animals to connect people to nature and stoke curiosity to learn more about the world around us."
Claude Has Died
Following the death of Claude, UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine plans to perform a full exam to determine what killed the reptile. Despite the reptile's death, the museum plans to honor and keep Claude's legacy alive. They will hold a public memorial for the albino reptile.
"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 museum said. "Claude was celebrated as the unofficial mascot of the Academy and San Francisco itself, and regularly received fan mail, gifts, and artwork from adoring fans across the world who conveyed just how much he meant to them."
Claude came a long way in its life. The reptile was born in a Louisiana swamp. However, it spent the first 13 years or so at Florida's St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park. That's when the California Academy of Sciences took over ownership and care for the rare reptile.
Claude's passing comes just months after his 30th birthday. The museum celebrated that occasion with a month-long celebration.
According to the Academy, "Thousands turned out for an unforgettable birthday party featuring remarks from government officials and City leadership, and a memorable chomp from the birthday boy as he received a specially made alligator birthday cake (made of fish and ice)."
