Kato Paphos harbour welcomes a second pelican companion

Kato Paphos harbour has welcomed a new member to its famous pelican duo. Alongside the long-standing resident Kokos, a young male pink pelican named Chris, approximately 9 to 10 months old, has arrived from Africa. According to Andros Papiris, the owner of the Pelican Restaurant, which cares for both birds, Chris is currently in a period of adjustment. He spends a few hours each day at the harbour to acclimatize to the surroundings and his new companion, often shadowing the experienced Kokos. While Kokos has historically been a female bird despite the name, both pelicans are now being cared for by the restaurant staff.

The tradition of resident pelicans in Paphos dates back to 1967, when fishermen rescued an injured bird that subsequently stayed at the local tavern. The restaurant was renamed "Pelican" in 1969 to reflect this iconic association. Over the decades, several birds have carried the name Kokos, including a previous resident who passed away in 2021. The new arrival is viewed as a significant promotional asset for tourism in Paphos. British media outlet Channel 5 recently filmed a report on the pair, which is expected to be broadcast internationally in the coming days.