PETA to Ravens: “No flyovers, please”
July 1, 2008
Wherever there are humans making animals perform things… PETA is not far behind.
In response to the Baltimore Ravens’ announcement they would be hiring a trainer to teach ravens — the birds, not the players — to fly around at home games this season (see my blog on the topic here), People for the Ethical Protection of Animals has sent a letter of protest.
Here’s an except from the letter to Ravens vice president for marketing Gabrielle Dow, who thought of the idea after seeing a trained hawk at a Seattle Seahawks game:
“Anyone who has attended a sporting event can attest to the sheer intensity of these games. The energy is palpable, and it is part of what makes attending these events so enjoyable. But the bright lights, screaming fans, and loud noises — such as air horns, bands, and amplified sound systems — are terrifying for animals who can’t possibly understand what is going on. Regardless of how these birds are trained, they are likely to be severely distressed by the overwhelming confusion of the situation…
“Public sentiment is rapidly moving away from the antiquated notion that animal displays are acceptable or fair to animals. Costumed humans are undeniably the most effective — and humane — entertainment for sports fans.”
The letter, sent by Kristie Phelps, assistant director for PETA’s Animals in Entertainment Campaign, went on to ask the team to prohibit the use of live animals at all Ravens games.
Has PETA crossed a line here or do you agree with them? And by the way, I have to say while costuming people may be fairer to animals, I’m not sure how lovely it is to the poor guy in one of those heat traps on a 90-degree day in August. Just a thought.
LIZ FARMER, Business Writer
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Of course PETA is correct on this, but its protest will be unavailing. Humans have been abusing all aspects of the world around them since they crawled out of the primorial slime. They are the one animal the earth cannot survive. Since B’morons, including those who run the Ravens, are no smarter than the average human, why would one expect enlightened behavior from them? When the birds die prematurely it will be in private, and substitutes in the next game will be indistinguishable to the average fan. In many respects, this life cycle mirrors that of the average professional football player. If teams treat players in this way, what reason is there to expect that they would treat birds any better.
Pam Anderson is an outspoken PETA member.
Is it really necessary to elaborate further on this?
Publicus, I have to tell you, I wouldn’t compare treatment of birds to professional football players. Arguably, one gig is better than the others. How are the Ravens mistreating their players? Otherwise, you are right.
Jennifer, there is no further reason to elaborate. Well, unless you want to go out on a limb and use a little logic and reason as opposed to mocking some girl because you are bitter she is 10,000 times hotter than you. I doubt she thinks she is better than you because of that fact. She probably is just grateful she got lucky and then she moves on. In light of this, do you want to make a substantive comment?
Here’s my substantive comment, Anon. You need medication. They’re doing amazing things with Risperdal these days. It’ll probably help with the shaking, too.
Jennifer - You’re wrong about medicine “these days.” Don’t believe everything your doctor tells you. The stuff is all still pretty primitive. Comments like yours usually reflect a patient’s perspective, so good luck with those personal demons, don’t drive, and try not to read stories that will get you agitated. Have a friend screen things for you first.