The albino alligator at the California Academy of Sciences, Claude, turned 30-years-old this year. Claude has lived in the Academy’s Steinhart Aquarium and has been cared for by the dedicated team since 2008. The celebration of this milestone included a month-long party for Claude where he was treated with a “cake” made of fish, squash and ice on his “hatchday.” For party guests there were featured giveaways of Claude-themed souvenirs, daily and special events such as Swamp Talks, Claude Storytime, illustration workshops and a meet and greet opportunity with the good boy himself (as a mascot).
Once a banana-sized baby, the beloved, now 300-pound alligator, remains one of the about 100 alligators affected by albinism in the world and is visited by around a million people each year. Ever since his arrival to the Academy, Claude has been a representation of his species and conservation of wildlife. Claude has garnered millions of fans globally since his arrival to the Academy.
The event kicked off with appearances from local government officials from Senator Scott Wiener, City Attorney David Chiu, Natural Resources Secretary Wade Crowfoot and Mayor Daniel Lurie.
“Our mission is to help people and nature thrive together. So we do a lot to protect animal habitats, to help animals thrive. But a lot of times, it’s hard to capture public attention for it, because science is complicated,” said Crowfoot. “This is a great opportunity for the Academy to share what it does best, entertain Californians but also educate them on science and the importance of protecting our world.”
Following the conclusion of guest speakers, caretakers entered his enclosure on a ladder and gently placed his fish cake down for him where he then took a couple of chomps, garnering cheers from the guests. “Claude’s Hatchday Party” on Sept. 14 included a “Happy Birthday” serenade for the birthday alligator, topped off with cupcakes that resemble Claude himself.
“We really hope that people will, you know, feel a little personal connection, maybe be inspired to change a behavior, or even just talk to their friends about maybe climate change or the ways that human development are impacting the habitats where these species thrive.” said Jeanette Peach, the acting communications director for the Academy.
For some, the Academy and Claude have been a part of their lives for years, where they now share their love for the unique alligator with their children. Four-year-old Willie, accompanied by his parents Hana and Evan Chambers, sat on the floor eating a cupcake during the celebration. “We’ve been coming here since we were in our early 20s as like, a date outing, and then we started bringing Willie here, and he loved Claude instantly.” said Hana.
The celebration of Claude’s 30th birthday highlighted the achievements of the Academy’s efforts to educate and protect wildlife, where the alligator is honored as a beloved symbol of our connection to nature.
“We’re fighting so hard to regenerate the natural world through science, learning and collaboration,” said Melissa Carine, the assistant manager for the guest education team. “Having so many people so clearly care about Claude and want to come and cheer for him, and sing for him, really means that we’re all in this together, and it makes us see that none of us are alone, and we’re all here to work together to make things better.”
