Claude, a rare albino crocodile adored by fans worldwide, passed away on Tuesday at the California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco. He was 30 years old.
Located in Golden Gate Park, the science museum is a favorite among local schoolchildren and international guests alike. Over the years, many kids have left with mini Claude stuffed animals in hand.
As an unofficial mascot for both the museum and the city, Claude has been featured in children’s books and in advertisements for public transport.
The museum noted in a statement that Claude had a “quiet charisma” that drew in visitors during his 17 years in San Francisco. It’s also worth mentioning that there are fewer than 200 albino crocodiles left in the world.
“Claude has shown us how ambassador animals can connect people to nature and spark curiosity about the world around us,” the statement continued.
Hatched on an alligator farm in Louisiana in 1995, Claude arrived at the academy in 2008. His unique albino traits resulted from a genetic mutation.
His eyes had a pinkish-red hue, with blood vessels visible through his clear irises.
Though albino crocodiles typically don’t thrive in the wild, American crocodiles can live for up to 70 years in captivity.
In September, Claude celebrated his 30th birthday at the museum, which included speeches and a special birthday cake made from fish and ice.
Measuring 10 feet long and weighing around 300 pounds, Claude had recently shown some signs of decreased appetite and was being treated for a suspected infection.
The University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine plans to conduct an examination to determine his cause of death.
A public memorial service for Claude is in the works, but for now, visitors are encouraged to share their memories and messages with the California Academy of Sciences’ human care team.
