Unexpected crisis at Crystal Palace... The Eagle in controversy

The eagle "Kayla" performed this role for 10 years before passing away in 2020, ending her participation in club-related events.

A new eagle replaces Kayla at Crystal Palace

In August 2024, the replacement eagle "Phoenix" made its debut during a match between Crystal Palace and West Ham United, at just four months old.

On that occasion, fans were able to meet the young eagle in a designated area outside the stadium before it was officially introduced during the halftime break, accompanied by its trainer and caretaker.

"Phoenix" resides at the "Eagle Heights Wildlife Foundation" located in Kent, England.

The foundation stated on its website at the time that the eagle "has undergone intensive training since hatching to prepare for its role as the official live mascot for Crystal Palace."

PETA issues a warning

PETA has raised concerns over the eagle's participation in sporting events, requesting Crystal Palace to stop using birds of prey in entertainment associated with matches.

According to reports, the organization confirmed in a letter sent to the club that the bright lights, loud noises, and large crowds make sports stadiums "inappropriate environments for animals."

PETA warned that such conditions could endanger the animals and pose a threat to spectator safety, as reported by the British newspaper "The Sun."

The organization cited an incident in 2015 when a fan attempted to assault the eagle "Kayla" during a match in the EFL Cup between Crystal Palace and Charlton Athletic, where a Charlton fan was convicted of attempting to strike the eagle amid crowd disturbances.

Eagles are symbols of freedom, not entertainment tools

In response to the issue, Dr. Karis Bennett, director of corporate projects at PETA, criticized the use of the eagle "Phoenix" for entertainment during football matches.

She stated, "Bald eagles hold a special place as symbols of freedom, yet Phoenix is treated merely as a tool for entertainment for football fans."

She added, "Crystal Palace already has a human mascot that engages the crowd, so there is no justification for bringing a wild animal into a crowded and noisy stadium."

Bennett emphasized the importance of exempting the eagle from participating in sporting events altogether, saying, "PETA urges the club to grant Phoenix the freedom to fly and retire it permanently from all match-related duties."