Independence-Seeking Fish Are Bombarding the Staten Island Ferry

Published by Michelle Reynolds.

Fish don’t want to be fish sticks—so they’re telling folks on the Staten Island Ferry boats where to stick it.

PETA’s ad on the MV Senator John J. Marchi

Anyone who has hooked a fish should know that fish feel pain. Numerous studies have repeatedly found that the pain response in fish is basically identical to that of mammals and birds.

PETA’s ad on the MV Andrew J. Barberi

Just like dogs and cats, fish are complex, sentient beings. They show affection by gently rubbing against each other, they talk to one another using sounds that human ears can’t hear, and they’ll even eavesdrop on others’ conversations. In addition, they pass down cultural traditions, use tools, tell time, make and play with toys, and have longer attention spans than humans.

PETA’s ad on the MV Senator John J. Marchi

Yet more fish are killed for food each year than all other animals combined, and they have no federal legal protection to prevent their abuse or suffering. They’re often hauled out of the sea and left to bleed or suffocate to death on the decks of ships.

PETA’s scrolling ad at the Whitehall Ferry Terminal in Manhattan reads, “Fish feel pain. Sea LIFE, not seafood. Visit PETA.org for fish-free recipes.”

“I never eat anyone I know personally. I wouldn’t deliberately eat a grouper any more than I’d eat a cocker spaniel. They’re so good-natured, so curious. You know, fish are sensitive, they have personalities, they hurt when they’re wounded.” Dr. Sylvia Earle, leading marine biologist

Check out our favorite cruelty-free faux-fish products and recipes here—and let fish be friends, not food.

Get PETA Updates

Stay up to date on the latest vegan trends and get breaking animal rights news delivered straight to your inbox!

By submitting this form, you’re acknowledging that you have read and agree to our privacy policy and agree to receive e-mails from us.

 Ingrid E. Newkirk

“Almost all of us grew up eating meat, wearing leather, and going to circuses and zoos. We never considered the impact of these actions on the animals involved. For whatever reason, you are now asking the question: Why should animals have rights?” READ MORE

— Ingrid E. Newkirk, PETA President and co-author of Animalkind

Close

Monkeys don’t belong in laboratory cages.

By submitting this form, you’re acknowledging that you have read and agree to our privacy policy and agree to receive e-mails from us.

Close

Monkeys don’t belong in laboratory cages.

By submitting this form, you’re acknowledging that you have read and agree to our privacy policy and agree to receive e-mails from us.