Squirrel that gained social media fame apprehended during raid following anonymous complaints | US News
A squirrel that gained fame on social media has been taken in a raid, causing concern for the animal’s owner about the possibility of euthanasia by New York authorities.
Known as Peanut, the squirrel was rescued by Mark Longo seven years ago after he witnessed its mother being hit by a car in New York City.
With over 533,000 followers on Instagram, this unique pet could be seen sporting a cowboy hat, enjoying waffles, performing tricks, and perching on the 34-year-old’s shoulder.
Following numerous anonymous complaints, New York’s Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) confiscated Peanut – along with a raccoon named Fred – from the man’s residence in Pine City on Wednesday.
A spokesperson for the state agency stated that they had received “multiple reports from the public regarding the potentially unsafe housing of wildlife that may carry rabies and the illegal ownership of wildlife as pets”.
Mentioning his wildlife sanctuary inspired by Peanut called P’Nuts Freedom Farm Animal Sanctuary, Mr Longo expressed, “The DEC came to my home and conducted a search without a warrant solely for a squirrel!
“I was handled as though I were a criminal, with them searching for drugs and weapons.”
Mark Longo rescued Peanut seven years ago.
Pic: AP
The owner of the squirrel added, “I am unaware if Peanut is still alive… I have no idea of his whereabouts.”
The DEC spokesperson did not provide any information about whether the squirrel had been put down.
After taking the squirrel to his previous residence in Norwalk, Connecticut, Mr Longo cared for Peanut for eight months before attempting to release him into the wild.
However, nearly two days later, the conservationist found the squirrel “sitting on my porch with half of his tail missing and his bone exposed,” determining that it could not survive in its natural habitat.
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He also mentioned on Instagram that social media users reported the squirrel to the DEC, stating, “Well internet, you WON.
“You took one of the most amazing animals away from me due to your selfishness. To the group of individuals who contacted DEC, there’s a special place in hell for you.”
It is illegal in the state of New York to possess a wild animal like a squirrel without a permit. Mr Longo acknowledged this and was in the process of obtaining certification for Peanut as an educational animal before the raid.
He remarked, “If we are not complying with the regulations, guide us in the right direction to ensure compliance, you know?”
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Mr Longo has initiated a petition and fundraiser to advocate for Peanut’s return.
Sky News has reached out to the DEC for further comments.
