Anger over car 'driven' by live insects

Animal rights group Peta said the toy was "as cruel as it is ridiculous". Photo / Getty

A toy company has been accused of cruelty for selling a car driven by a caged insect.

Bug Racer was condemned as the "worst toy idea ever" because of the way it treats crickets.

Their nocturnal habits will be disturbed as children as young as six goad them into touching sensors in their plastic "living modules" to steer the car.

Animal rights group Peta said it was "as cruel as it is ridiculous" and demanded its withdrawal.

The toy was developed by Toy Box - part of Barbie-maker Mattel, and costs $30 in the US.

It needs four batteries to power the car, although Mattel jokes that it is the first vehicle powered by 'eleCrickety'.

The instructions say that up to five insects can be crammed into the module, which slides into the top of the car.

But Facebook users were unimpressed. Merrica Forsaith-Smith wrote: "Surely this has to be the worst toy idea ever?"

Lyn Brown wrote: "Will the next "toy" pull wings off butterflies?"

It is not clear whether Mattel will sell the Bug Racer in the UK, although it can be imported.

Mattel did not comment, but Toy Box executive vice president Susie Lecker told the New York Times the gadget was humane, adding: "We haven't lost a cricket behind the wheel yet."

- Daily Mail