SAN FRANCISCO, CA (December 2, 2025) — It is with a heavy heart that we share the news that Claude, our beloved albino alligator, has passed away at the age of 30. Claude was an iconic resident of the California Academy of Sciences, with many visitors forming deep connections during his 17-year tenure. 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. Claude demonstrated the power of ambassador animals to connect people to nature and spark curiosity to learn more about the world around us.
Claude’s dedicated care team had been monitoring him closely in recent weeks due to a waning appetite, and he was recently moved behind-the-scenes to undergo treatment for a suspected infection. He received the best possible care from the Steinhart Aquarium veterinarian and animal care teams. This heartbreaking outcome is not what we hoped for. A full exam and necropsy, to be conducted at UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, will yield more information about the cause of death.
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. 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. In September, the Academy marked his 30th birthday with monthlong festivities that celebrated his impact in the museum, across the city, and on social media. 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).
Please join us in sending heartfelt thanks and condolences to the dedicated team of animal care specialists and veterinarians who provided the best care for Claude every day. And we thank our community for loving Claude so fiercely over the years. We will miss him dearly.
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The California Academy of Sciences is a renowned scientific and educational institution with a mission to regenerate the natural world through science, learning, and collaboration. Based in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park, it is home to a world-class aquarium, planetarium, and natural history museum, as well as innovative programs in scientific research and environmental education—all under one living roof. Museum hours are 9:30 am – 5:00 pm Monday – Saturday, and 11:00 am – 5:00 pm on Sunday. Admission includes all exhibits, programs, and shows. For daily ticket prices, please visit www.calacademy.org or call (415) 379-8000 for more information.
