Animal rights group calls for Crystal Palace to retire live eagle mascot

An international animal welfare organization has formally called on Crystal Palace Football Club to discontinue the use of a live bald eagle as its match-day mascot, citing concerns about the bird's wellbeing in crowded stadium settings.

In correspondence addressed to the club's Chief Executive Officer Sharon Lacey, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (Peta) argued that a "bright stadium filled with boisterous fans is no place for animals," emphasizing that the noise and visual stimuli associated with large sporting events pose significant stress to wildlife.

The intervention reflects growing scrutiny of the use of live animals in sports and entertainment across Europe. Animal welfare advocates have increasingly questioned whether high-profile mascot programs align with modern ethical standards regarding animal care and protection.

The organization's request represents part of a broader campaign by animal rights groups to eliminate the use of live creatures in sporting venues and public entertainment settings. Peta has not indicated whether Crystal Palace has responded to their formal request for the immediate retirement of the eagle mascot.