New Year's eve "opossum drop" opposed by PETA
(CBS/AP) RALEIGH, N.C. - When counting down their favorite New Year's eve traditions, the group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals definitely does not include the annual opossum drop in the small North Carolina community of Brasstown.
PETA has sent a letter to the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission calling for a halt to the traditional lowering of the marsupial.
The event has been held for 18 years at Clay's Corner store in the community in the far western tip of the state.During the celebration, an opossum is lowered to the ground in a transparent box, in imitation of the famous ball drop at Times Square.
PETA says the event is cruel, and furthermore, lacks proper permits for the display of wild animals.
Clay Logan, a co-owner of the store, says the animals are always treated well.
A spokesman for the commission says PETA's complaint is being reviewed.
3..2...1...Happy New Year!