Princess Charlene released a rescued red-footed falcon in southern France and became patron of a wildlife rescue association supporting rehabilitation and conservation efforts for injured wild animals.
Princess Charlene released a rescued red-footed falcon back into the wild in the Alpes-Maritimes as she officially became patron of the wildlife rescue association Instinct Animal SOS Faune Sauvage.
Accompanied by her brother Gareth Wittstock, the Princess released the bird on the Calern plateau in Caussols after more than eight months of treatment and rehabilitation following severe injuries.
The falcon had suffered a serious wing fracture and electrocution injuries, damage that would normally have resulted in euthanasia.
Instead, teams from Instinct Animal SOS Faune Sauvage, led by Lucie Contet and Laura Bailo, carried out months of intensive veterinary care using innovative rehabilitation techniques that eventually enabled the bird to fly again.
The release took place on the plateau of the Calern Astronomical Observatory during the species’ migratory season between Asia and southern Africa, allowing the falcon to rejoin others of its kind.
Speaking during the event, Princess Charlene described the release as “a powerful symbol of courage, resilience and hope” and praised the work of the association and its volunteers.
The Sovereign’s wife also formally announced her patronage of the organisation, extending her support for animal welfare beyond Monaco, where she already serves as president of the SPA Refuge de Monaco.
Following the release ceremony, the Princess visited the association’s wildlife rescue centre in Saint-Cézaire-sur-Siagne.
Opened in June 2025, the facility is currently the only wildlife rescue centre of its kind in the Alpes-Maritimes. It has already treated nearly 2,000 wild animals from across the region, including the Var, Alpes-de-Haute-Provence and Hautes-Alpes.
The centre operates throughout the year with six staff members and support from volunteers, public funding, donations and corporate sponsorship.
Source: Riviera Radio
