PETA urges BU to reconsider using bearcat mascot

BINGHAMTON, NY (WIVT/WBGH) — PETA wrote a letter to Binghamton University, urging the school to reconsider using its new live mascot.

Binghamton University and Animal Adventure Park in Harpursville announced a new partnership to use the park’s binturong , commonly referred to as a bearcat, as the school’s mascot.

PETA sent a letter to BU’s president, Harvey Stenger to reconsider. PETA says binturongs are listed as a vulnerable species. The organization says binturongs are sensitive animals, who live in solitude in the high trees of Southeast Asia.

PETA says, other universities’ use of live animals as mascots has resulted in attacks or injuries, and the animals suffer. Stenger says bearcats reflect some of the best qualities of both bears and cats, they’re fast, they’re tough and they’re adaptable.

News 34 reached out to the school for comment but has not yet received a response.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WIVT - News 34.