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

Crystal Palace were rebranded as the Eagles in the mid-1970s, having previously been known as the Glaziers Photo: GETTY IMAGES

An animal rights group has urged Crystal Palace to stop using its live bald eagle mascot, saying stadiums are no place for animals.

In a letter to club CEO Sharon Lacey on Wednesday, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals called on the Premier League side to retire Phoenix with immediate effect and never use live animal mascots again.

Crystal Palace, nicknamed the Eagles since 1973, introduced a live eagle to match days in 2010.

Kayla filled the role for a decade until she died in 2020. Phoenix made her debut against West Ham in August 2024.

PETA argued that bright lights, loud noise and boisterous crowds can leave birds “frightened, disoriented and panicked,” putting both the animals and spectators at risk. The group said using eagles for entertainment also prevents them from following instincts and causes stress and frustration.

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The organisation cited past incidents involving live mascots, including birds injured or killed in collisions with walls, windows and footballs, and a falcon that sank its talons into a fan’s scalp. In 2017, a Charlton Athletic supporter was convicted of trying to punch Kayla during a League Cup match.

PETA’s senior corporate projects manager, Dr Carys Bennett said, “Many professional sports teams use only willing humans as mascots, and the club already has Pete the Eagle to excite the crowd.

“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.”

Gilbert Ekugbe is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with over a decade of experience reporting on business and economic affairs. He covers markets, corporate developments, finance, and Nigeria’s broader economic landscape. His reporting is informed by extensive newsroom experience and a strong commitment to accuracy and responsible journalism, helping readers understand complex business issues.

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