Animal‑rights organization People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) has called on Premier League side Crystal Palace to discontinue the use of its live bald eagle mascot, Phoenix, arguing that the bird endures stress and that its presence in a stadium poses safety risks.
PETA’s appeal highlights concerns that the confined environment of a football stadium, with loud crowds and bright lights, can be detrimental to the welfare of a wild bird such as an eagle. The group stresses that live animals should not be used for entertainment in settings that are not suited to their natural needs.
Crystal Palace, based at Selhurst Park in South London, has traditionally featured Phoenix as a symbolic figure for the club. The club has not yet responded publicly to PETA’s request, and it remains unclear whether any changes to the mascot program will be made.
The call adds to a broader debate over the use of live animal mascots in sports, where animal‑rights advocates argue that modern stadiums are unsuitable habitats and that alternatives, such as costumed performers, can fulfill the same role without compromising animal welfare.
<small>Source: Punch Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>