PETA urges Crystal Palace to retire bald eagle mascot Phoenix

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PETA's Concerns":"PETA argues that the bright stadium environment with boisterous fans is unsuitable for birds like Phoenix, potentially causing distress and putting them and spectators at risk. The group emphasizes that birds are denied the opportunity to engage in their natural behavior, leading to frustration and stress.","

Historical Context":"Crystal Palace introduced Phoenix as a matchday mascot in 2010, succeeding Kayla who died in 2020. The group cites incidents involving birds at sporting events, including one in which a fan was found guilty of attempting to punch Kayla at a 2015 League Cup match. PETA believes that bald eagles, widely recognized as symbols of freedom, deserve better than to be used as an entertainment 'prop' to amuse fans.","

Other Clubs' Practices":"While some European clubs have used live eagle mascots, including Portuguese side Benfica and Italian club Lazio, PETA notes that no other UK football club still uses a live animal mascot. The group urges Crystal Palace to protect animals by retiring Phoenix and committing to never using a live animal mascot again."}