An animal rights organization has asked Crystal Palace to stop using a live bald eagle as its mascot, pointing to potential harm for the bird called Phoenix.
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals wrote to the club's chief executive recently, asking for an end to this activity. The organization believes the intense stadium atmosphere with its lights, sounds, and large crowds is not appropriate for wildlife, even animals born in human care.
A representative for PETA explained that using live animals as mascots can distress birds, leading to anxiety and confusion. The group mentioned previous occasions where birds of prey have flown into structures or windows, and also noted an event where a bird landed on a fan's head.
"Many professional sports teams use only willing humans as mascots and the club already has Pete the Eagle to excite the crowd," the PETA representative said. "Bald eagles are widely recognised as symbols of freedom. They deserve better than to be used as an entertainment prop to amuse the Eagles' fans."
Phoenix's history and debut
The bald eagle Phoenix first appeared at a Crystal Palace home game. The bird lives at a wildlife foundation and was presented during a match break. The club's tradition of having an eagle mascot started years ago with a different bird.
Initial ideas for the eagle to fly before games this season were not pursued. The mascot is not present for all matches at the team's home ground.
Previous incidents and welfare concerns
PETA referenced earlier occurrences to bolster its request. In one past match, a supporter was convicted for trying to hit the club's former eagle mascot. PETA says these situations show live creatures face danger in the unpredictable setting of a sports arena.
Crystal Palace has not publicly answered PETA's letter or follow-up inquiries. The wildlife foundation housing the eagle also did not respond to questions about the bird's care.
Other football clubs also use live eagles as mascots. A prominent team in Portugal has a long-standing practice involving an eagle at its games. PETA's request is for Crystal Palace to stop using Phoenix and to pledge not to employ a live animal mascot in the future.
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