Christmas Tree–Scaling Squirrels Deserve Their Own Holiday Meal, PETA Says

City’s Electric Zapper Prompts Offer of Stash of Nuts to Keep Squirrels Away From City’s Holiday Display in a Seasonally Appropriate, Kind Way

For Immediate Release:
December 11, 2015

Contact:
David Perle 202-483-7382

In response to reports that electric zappers have been installed to keep squirrels away from the Lewiston Christmas tree, PETA has written to Lewiston Mayor Robert E. Macdonald with an offer of yuletide cheer: At no cost to the city, the group will provide a stash of nourishing, squirrel-delighting nuts that will humanely draw the curious animals away from the tree—a win-win situation.

“Instead of electrically shocking wildlife, the city can spread yuletide spirit to all, including spirited, fluffy-tailed tree climbers who also call Lewiston their home,” says PETA President Ingrid Newkirk. “PETA is eager to help humanely deter squirrels from jumping onto the Christmas tree by providing them with a tasty Christmas dinner of their own.”

PETA—whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to abuse in any way”—offers a full range of tips for living in harmony with wildlife on its website.

PETA’s letter to Lewiston Mayor Robert E. Macdonald follows.

December 11, 2015

The Honorable Robert E. Macdonald Mayor of Lewiston

Dear Mayor Macdonald,

On behalf of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) and our more than 3 million members and supporters, including thousands across Maine, I’d like to offer an opportunity to spread the yuletide spirit to all members of your community regardless of species and cheer up the people who felt their holiday spirit go flat after a recent decision by the city. We understand that resident squirrels have become quite enamored with Lewiston’s Christmas tree and have even gone so far as to “rewire” the LED lights. As squirrels are curious, clever beings, we propose to give them a holiday gift that would keep them away from the tree as well as fill their bellies: a stash of squirrel-friendly foods, such as acorns and other nuts.

This food stash, which PETA would be happy to supply at no cost to the city, should draw animal eyes (and teeth and claws) away from holiday celebrations without causing any harm or discomfort to the animals. And by giving squirrels a tasty Christmas dinner of their own, Lewiston would truly embody the holiday spirit of peace and goodwill to all.

Thank you for your consideration, and happy holidays to you.

Very truly yours,

Ingrid E. Newkirk
President