PETA criticized Google's Steve Irwin art and people are not happy
PETA is facing negative backlash (again), this time for calling out Google and Steve Irwin on Friday.
The Google homepage featured an illustration of Irwin, the late Australian zookeeper and conservationist, holding a crocodile on what would have been his 57th birthday. It was an image that PETA referred to as "dangerous" and "fawning."
SEE ALSO: Steve Irwin gets his own Google Doodle to commemorate his birthday
PETA quote tweeted Google about 12 hours after the graphic went up, which still fell squarely on Irwin's birthday (he died after being stung by a ray in 2006).
#SteveIrwin was killed while harassing a ray; he dangled his baby while feeding a crocodile & wrestled wild animals who were minding their own business. Today’s #GoogleDoodle sends a dangerous, fawning message. Wild animals are entitled to be left alone in their natural habitats. https://t.co/9JfJiBhGLw
— PETA (@peta) February 22, 2019
— Kyle Wren (@KwrenGT) February 23, 2019
Most replies were quick to put PETA in its place and enumerate Irwin and his family's many efforts to protect and conserve wildlife over the years. Wildlife conservationist Anneka Svenska told BBC Radio 1 that his work "has inspired the next generation of conservationists." The same BBC article details opposing interpretations of Irwin's career over the years.
Never mind what charity work he did for endangered animals, the funds he raised, animals he helped, the people he educated.. he was a brilliant person who did so much for so many people and animals. @peta you are wrong to disrespect such a wonderful man.
— Silkie Allen (@Silkie_Allen) February 22, 2019
Steve Irwin saved the lives of countless animals in his sanctuaries. He helped educate millions globally about animals’ needs and ways of life. He loved animals and cared for them greatly. You do some good work helping animals PETA, but how about some balance and more respect... https://t.co/olpLCvKepN
— Dan Clark (@DanClarkSports) February 22, 2019
#PETA tries to come for Steve Irwin.
Twitter: pic.twitter.com/z1sN7bqbku— Carolaen (@Moonstone1812) February 23, 2019
Steve Irwin taught me more about animals than PETA. He also you know, protected them and took them places to keep them safe.
— Nathan Martin (@Editwithmouse) February 22, 2019
PETA have killed more than 36,000 animals since 1998, but pretend to care about animals for attention and then they try to talk shit on Steve Irwin who actually actually cared about animals.
— iNabber (@iNabberTV) February 23, 2019
Steve Irwin and his family reclaim land for animals and run a massive wildlife rescue. His life mission was to save animals and educate people about them. I’m one of many vegetarians who rip out their hair when @peta weighs in. Shame on you. https://t.co/m4fdNymjao
— Maureen Johnson (@maureenjohnson) February 23, 2019
There have been few people who have done more for wildlife conservation and education than the Irwin family. You owe them an apology.
— Dave Hogg (@stareagle) February 23, 2019
This is so disrespectful and should be deleted IMMEDIATELY and an apology should be offered to his family. #SteveIrwin
No seriously ... dick-move guys the amount of time & $ they put into their animal hospital alone. Not cool. https://t.co/iHbsMYDYBY— JOHN EDWARD 🔦 (@psychicmediumje) February 23, 2019
“The message is simple: love and conserve our wildlife” - Steve Irwin. The greatest Wildlife Warrior to ever live. Together, we can ensure Steve’s legacy lives on for the generations to come.🐊💚 pic.twitter.com/ritnf1Qsg5
— Australia Zoo (@AustraliaZoo) February 23, 2019
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