Princess Charlène Released a Red-Footed Falcon at the Calern Observatory
Photo: The Prince's Palace of Monaco
Princess Charlène took part in releasing a red-footed falcon at the CERGA Astronomical Observatory on the Calern Plateau in Caussols, and afterwards visited the SOS Faune Sauvage animal care centre.
On Monday 11 May, Princess Charlène of Monaco, accompanied by her brother Gareth Wittstock, took part in releasing a red-footed falcon at the CERGA Astronomical Observatory on the Calern Plateau in Caussols. The bird of prey had previously suffered electrocution injuries but recovered through treatment provided by SOS Faune Sauvage.
Princess Charlène together with her brother Gareth Wittstock during the event. Photo: The Prince's Palace of Monaco
After more than eight months of intensive treatment and rehabilitation using innovative medical techniques, the migratory bird, which travels between Asia and South Africa, regained its freedom in good time before the migration season.
Princess Charlène at the lectern during the event. Photo: The Prince's Palace of Monaco
Princess Charlène receiving the falcon from the SOS Faune Sauvage carers. Photo: The Prince's Palace of Monaco
The Princess holding the recovered falcon before the release. Photo: The Prince's Palace of Monaco
The moment the falcon is released and takes off from the Princess's hand. Photo: The Prince's Palace of Monaco
After the release, the Princess visited the Instinct Animal, SOS Faune Sauvage care centre in Saint-Cézaire-sur-Siagne. The facility opened on 30 June 2025 and has already taken in nearly 2,000 injured and distressed wild animals. The centre serves the Alpes-Maritimes region and neighbouring departments Var, Alpes-de-Haute-Provence and Hautes-Alpes.
Princess Charlène together with staff from the Instinct Animal centre after the release. Photo: The Prince's Palace of Monaco