Claude the Albino Alligator Celebrates 30 Years with Month-Long Festivities

Claude, the distinctive albino alligator at the California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco, is celebrating a significant milestone: his 30th birthday on September 15, 2025.

To commemorate this occasion, the Academy is hosting a series of celebratory events throughout September. These festivities include daily giveaways, a special birthday party on September 14 featuring a fish-based "cake" for Claude and treats for attendees, and a "Swamp Soirée" on September 17, which will showcase culinary creations by Top Chef winner Melissa King.

Claude has been a resident of the Academy since 2008. Albino alligators are exceptionally rare, with estimates of only 100 to 200 existing worldwide. Their lack of melanin makes them vulnerable in the wild, but they can thrive in protected environments, potentially living for 50 years or more.

Visitors can also look forward to meet-and-greets with a Claude mascot and can acquire limited-edition posters created by students from the California College of the Arts. Special programming includes storytime readings of a new children's book about Claude's unique appearance.

The California Academy of Sciences is located at 55 Music Concourse Drive, San Francisco, CA 94118. It is open Monday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Special evening events, such as the 21+ NightLife on Thursdays, are also available.