Beloved Squirrel 'Peanut' Euthanized After Seizure by New York Authorities

 

An orphaned squirrel named Peanut, who gained fame as a social media sensation, was euthanized following a raid by New York authorities. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) seized Peanut along with a raccoon named Fred from caretaker Mark Longo's home in Pine City, near the Pennsylvania border, after receiving anonymous complaints.

On October 30, DEC officers removed both animals from Longo's residence, citing concerns over potential human exposure to rabies, as they were being kept in a home environment. According to reports, the situation escalated when an individual involved in the investigation was reportedly bitten by Peanut. In a statement, the DEC confirmed that both animals were euthanized for rabies testing, highlighting the risk associated with having wild animals in close proximity to humans. The agency urged anyone who had come into contact with Peanut or Fred to seek medical advice.

Peanut, who had amassed tens of thousands of followers across platforms like Instagram and TikTok, had become a beloved figure among animal enthusiasts. Longo had rescued Peanut seven years ago after witnessing the squirrel's mother being struck by a car in New York City. Over the years, Peanut entertained fans with videos showcasing his playful antics, including leaping onto Longo’s shoulder, jumping through hoops, and enjoying treats like waffles while sporting tiny hats.

Following the announcement of Peanut’s euthanasia, Longo expressed his profound sorrow on social media, describing the decision as devastating and expressing frustration over the authorities’ lack of compassion. “Despite our passionate outcry for compassion, the agency chose to ignore our pleas, leaving us in deep shock and grief,” Longo wrote in an emotional Instagram post, which included a video montage of Peanut and Fred interacting with their caretakers.

Longo and his wife, Daniela, established P’Nuts Freedom Farm Animal Sanctuary in April 2023, which currently houses around 300 animals, including horses, goats, and alpacas. He mentioned that he was in the process of obtaining certification for Peanut as an educational animal when the raid occurred. The loss of Peanut has sparked outrage among his supporters, who remember him not just as a pet but as a symbol of kindness and the human-animal bond.