PETA urges Crystal Palace to 'let Phoenix spread his wings' and permanently retire live bald eagle mascot from matchday duties

Animal rights group PETA has urged the Crystal Palace football club to permanently retire their live bald eagle mascot, Phoenix, from matchday duties. The organisation has written to club CEO Sharon Lacey, demanding an end to the use of live animals as mascots. PETA claims that the stressful environment of the stadium, with its bright lights, loud noises, and boisterous crowds, causes the birds to become frightened, disoriented, and panicked.

The group also points to the safety risks associated with live animal mascots, citing several incidents where eagles and other birds have been harmed inside stadiums. These include an owl that died after being hit by a ball, eagles crashing into walls or windows, and a falcon whose talons punctured a fan's scalp. PETA argues that existing costumed characters, such as Pete the Eagle, are sufficient to entertain the crowd without putting wildlife at risk.

They emphasize that reclusive eagles deserve better than a stressful, booming stadium environment. The demand for Phoenix's retirement comes as the club prepares for a Europa League match against Turkish side Besiktas. Crystal Palace's manager, Pierre Sage, has been under scrutiny after winning only seven points from the club's opening seven league games.