Beloved Albino Alligator Claude Leaves Lasting Legacy at California Academy of Sciences
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The California Academy of Sciences is mourning the loss of Claude, the world-famous albino alligator who captivated millions with his gentle charm. Claude passed away at the age of 30 after a 17-year tenure at the Academy's Steinhart Aquarium. Born in Louisiana in 1995, Claude was one of the Academy's most popular residents when he arrived in 2008. Weighing 300 pounds, he enjoyed a diet of 1,250 grams of frozen rats each week. His enclosure in the museum's swamp habitat was home to snapping turtles, including Donatello, Raphael, and Morla. Claude's life was filled with memorable moments, including the time he swallowed a ballet slipper that required a special tool from the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago to retrieve. He was more than just an attraction; he was a beloved symbol of the Academy and the city of San Francisco. Fans from around the world showered him with fan mail, gifts, and artwork, and his 30th birthday was celebrated with month-long festivities. In recent weeks, Claude's health had declined, and his care team moved him behind the scenes for closer monitoring. His appetite had diminished, and he was being treated for a suspected infection. Despite the best care possible, Claude's condition took a turn for the worse. The Academy will hold a public memorial for Claude in the near future and will share details soon. A full exam and necropsy will be conducted at UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine to determine the cause of death. Claude's impact on the lives of millions will not be forgotten. He served as an ambassador for his species, connecting people to nature and inspiring curiosity about the world around us. His legacy will continue to inspire and educate future generations at the California Academy of Sciences.
