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EPL: Stadiums not for live animal mascots, group tells Crystal Palace

Animal rights group PETA has urged Premier League club Crystal Palace to retire its live bald eagle mascot, Phoenix, citing stress and safety concerns. Read More: https://punchng.com/epl-stadiums-not-for-live-animal-mascots-group-tells-crystal-palace/

EPL: Stadiums not for live animal mascots, group tells Crystal Palace

An animal rights organization, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), has urged Crystal Palace to cease using a live bald eagle mascot, citing the unsuitability of stadiums for animals. In a letter to the club's CEO, Sharon Lacey, PETA demanded the immediate retirement of Phoenix and the discontinuation of live animal mascots altogether.

The Eagles, who have had a live eagle mascot since 2010, introduced Phoenix just last month. PETA argued that the bright lights, loud noise, and boisterous crowds at stadiums can cause fear, disorientation, and panic in birds, posing risks to both animals and spectators. The organization cited past incidents where live mascots resulted in injuries or fatalities, including a falcon that attacked a fan.

PETA also highlighted the stress and frustration caused to animals by being forced to perform in unnatural settings.

Written by urgent.news from Punch Nigeria's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.

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