PETA has again found itself on the wrong side of public opinion after sparking a massive backlash from its tweets that criticized the late Steve Irwin, a much-loved TV presenter and conservationist that passed away in 2006.
The animal rights group went on the attack on what would have been Irwin's 57th birthday after Google decided to honor his memory with one of their 'doodles.'
“Today's Google Doodle celebrates Steve Irwin, the legendary Australian wildlife advocate & TV personality whose bravery & passion opened the eyes of millions to the wonders of wildlife,” Google tweeted, alongside a sweet tribute picture of the 'crocodile hunter.' People's reactions were overwhelmingly positive, sharing their favorite memories of the lovable larrikin and some saying they were moved to tears.
Nevertheless, PETA, with their usual smug and contrarian attitude, was having none of it. “Steve Irwin was killed while harassing a ray,” they wrote. “He dangled his baby while feeding a crocodile and wrestled wild animals who were minding their own business. Today’s Google Doodle sends a dangerous, fawning message. Wild animals are entitled to be left alone in their natural habitats.”
People were far from impressed, unsurprisingly. While there might be a glimmer of a point in PETA's controversial statement, Irwin did dramatize his show by getting quite physical with animals at times; his fans were quick to point out the hypocrisy of PETA. Some highlighted the high rate of euthanasia use in their shelters and their lack of real conservation efforts; Irwin and his family founded and maintained a large conservation sanctuary, to contribute to the protection and rehabilitation of thousands of animals, while PETA appears to spend more and more time creating divisive and controversial 'awareness' campaigns.
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