Malizia, the regal bald eagle and official mascot of the 17th Parachute Engineer Regiment of Montauban, returned to Monaco, reinforcing the strong ties between the regiment and the Principality…
A gift from Her Royal Highness the Princess of Hanover, who serves as the regiment’s godmother, Malizia symbolizes the unit’s expertise in both airborne operations and explosive ordnance disposal. The eagle’s ability to soar high and stare directly into the sun mirrors the regiment’s motto—masters of fire and air—highlighting their dual proficiency in controlling controlled detonations and navigating the skies.
The visit marks Malizia’s first return to Monaco since 2017, when the eagle took part in the National Day celebrations honouring the bicentenary of the Prince’s Carabiniers. This time, the eagle was welcomed at the Jardin Animalier, the Principality’s renowned zoo, which is celebrating its 70th anniversary. The occasion allowed Malizia to meet Misa, another white-tailed eagle, in a symbolic encounter bridging conservation and military tradition.
The regiment’s visit also coincides with Monaco’s continued commitment to wildlife conservation. Last September, a young female white-tailed eagle was released into the wild on the Vila Clémentine bank, with ongoing monitoring funded by the regiment. Equipped with a tracking beacon, the eagle’s progress will be followed closely, ensuring its successful adaptation to the natural environment.
The enduring connection between the 17th Parachute Engineer Regiment and the Princely Family remains strong, with Malizia serving as a powerful symbol of the shared values of discipline, commitment, and heritage. As the regiment continues to uphold its traditions, its bond with Monaco is reaffirmed year after year through visits and meaningful conservation efforts.
Photo by Mathew Schwartz
