Crystal Palace have been asked to retire their American bald eagle mascot, Phoenix, by animal rights organisation People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA).
In a letter sent to Palace chief executive Sharon Lacey, PETA argued that a busy stadium environment could leave a bird frightened and disorientated, while also creating risks for spectators. The organisation urged the club to commit to never using a live animal mascot again.
Palace have been associated with eagles since 1973. Their previous eagle, Kayla, was introduced to the pre-match routine in 2010, meeting supporters outside the fanzone before flying between the crossbars at Selhurst Park. The display continued for around a decade before Kayla died in 2020.
Phoenix was presented to supporters in August 2024 before Palace’s match against West Ham. However, she has not appeared at Selhurst Park since and has yet to make her first pre-match flight across the pitch.
PETA referred to several incidents involving live animal mascots elsewhere, including birds crashing into structures, an owl being struck by a ball and a falcon landing on a supporter. The organisation also highlighted the 2015 arrest and conviction of a Charlton Athletic fan who attempted to punch Kayla before a League Cup match at Selhurst Park.
PETA said live displays can prevent eagles from carrying out natural behaviours and cause stress. Palace were contacted for a response to the letter and a follow-up request, but had not replied at the time of publication.
