Overview
- Preliminary findings reported by the California Academy of Sciences cite extensive liver cancer, evidence of liver failure, and signs of systemic infection as the apparent cause.
- Experts from the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine conducted the exam and necropsy alongside Steinhart Aquarium senior veterinarian Dr. Lana Krol.
- In the weeks before his Dec. 2 death, Claude’s appetite declined and he was moved behind the scenes for treatment for a suspected infection under close veterinary care.
- The museum said treatment options were limited, noted that apex predators often mask illness, and added that changes in Claude’s skin color and texture signaled his decline.
- Claude measured about 10 feet and 300 pounds, spent 17 years at the Academy as an unofficial mascot, and the museum is inviting public tributes ahead of a planned memorial.