Crystal Palace could be forced to reconsider one of their most recognisable matchday traditions after animal rights group PETA called for the immediate removal of their live bald eagle mascot, Phoenix.In a letter to Palace chief executive Sharon Lacey, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals urged the Premier League club to stop featuring Phoenix in pre-match displays at Selhurst Park and commit to never using live animal mascots again.🚨 Peta urges Crystal Palace to retire live eagle mascot – Animal rights group Peta is urging Crystal Palace to immediately retire their live bald eagle mascot – The group wrote to Palace CEO Sharon Lacey asking the club to stop using the eagle at Selhurst Park – Peta also asked Palace to never use live animal mascots again – The eagle, named Phoenix, made her debut against West Ham in August 2024 – Her predecessor Kayla performed the role for 10 years before dying in 2020 – Palace have been known as the Eagles since 1973 and introduced a live eagle to matchdays in 2010 – Peta says stadium environments can leave birds "frightened, disoriented and panicked" – The group cites records of mascot birds being injured or killed in collisions with walls, windows and match balls – It also notes a 2017 case where a Charlton fan was found guilty of trying to punch Kayla – Peta's Dr Carys Bennett says Palace already have human mascot Pete the Eagle and don't need a live bird— Football Culture (@CultFooty) October 21, 2026 The campaign group argues that a stadium packed with noisy, excitable supporters is no environment for a bird of prey, warning that the atmosphere can leave animals frightened, disoriented and at risk of injuring themselves or spectators.Known as the Eagles since 1973, Palace introduced a live eagle to their matchday routine in 2010. Kayla occupied the role for a decade before she died in 2020, with Phoenix making her debut ahead of a match against West Ham in August 2024.Now, that tradition is facing fresh scrutiny.22.00: (2.10) Bayern (3.90) Arsenal (3.20)PETA claims it has detailed records of incidents involving live animal mascots being injured or killed after colliding with walls, windows and match balls. The organisation has also cited an incident in which a falcon embedded its talons in a spectator's scalp after landing on his head.There is a troubling chapter in Palace's own history, too. In 2017, a Charlton Athletic supporter was found guilty of attempting to punch Kayla during a League Cup fixture in 2015.PETA's senior corporate projects manager, Dr Carys Bennett, believes Palace do not need to put a live bird on display, pointing to the club's human mascot, Pete the Eagle, as an alternative."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," Bennett said.Massive boost for Kamulalani FC after Mozzart Bet's donation ahead of key tournamentThe group also argues that using birds for entertainment prevents them from expressing natural behaviours and can cause frustration and stress.For Palace, the eagle is more than just a mascot: it is part of the club's identity and a familiar sight before kick-off at Selhurst Park. But PETA's intervention has reignited the debate over whether that tradition should continue – or whether the Eagles should finally take their symbol out of the spotlight.