The Heartbreaking Story Behind Peanut the Squirrel's Seizure and Euthanasia by New York State's Department of Environmental Conservation

 

A tragic end has befallen Peanut the Squirrel, a beloved internet sensation with over half a million followers on Instagram, after he was seized and euthanized by New York State’s Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) earlier this week. Peanut, often called "P'Nut," captured hearts with his playful antics, clever costumes, and heartwarming bond with his owner, content creator Mark Longo. The 7-year-old rescue squirrel became an online icon and source of joy for many around the world, frequently appearing on Longo’s Instagram posts jumping through hoops, enjoying treats, or dressed in themed outfits.

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However, following an investigation prompted by concerns over the legality of keeping wild animals as pets in New York, DEC officials removed Peanut, along with another animal named Fred the raccoon, from Longo’s home in Pine City. According to DEC’s joint statement with Chemung County Department of Health, the animals were seized due to "multiple reports from the public about potentially unsafe housing" and the risk of rabies. DEC explained that the euthanasia was conducted as part of testing for rabies, sparking widespread outcry from Peanut's followers and animal rights advocates.

The loss of Peanut has ignited a strong response online, with fans voicing frustration and heartbreak over the squirrel’s death. Longo, devastated by the loss, shared his feelings in an Instagram post, stating, “You took one of the most amazing animals away from me because of your selfishness… I’m in shock, disbelief, and disgusted." Many of his followers echoed this sentiment, with supporters calling the seizure a “madness” and an “overreach of authority.”

To protest the DEC’s actions and advocate for better protections for such unique human-animal bonds, fans launched a petition on Change.org, which has garnered over 24,000 signatures within days. This petition urges lawmakers to “re-evaluate their decision” and return Peanut to his family. In addition, a GoFundMe campaign was created to help Longo cover legal fees and support efforts to reform policies regarding rescued wild animals.

The Story Behind Peanut’s Fame

Peanut’s journey with Longo began in a heartbreaking way. Seven years ago, Longo rescued him after witnessing Peanut's mother get hit by a car, leaving the baby squirrel orphaned. Despite Longo’s initial attempts to reintroduce him to the wild, Peanut kept returning to Longo’s home—finally choosing a domestic life over the uncertainties of the outdoors. Since then, Peanut has lived under Longo’s care, often joined by other animals at Longo’s animal sanctuary, P’Nut’s Freedom Farm Animal Sanctuary, a haven Longo founded for rescued animals.

Longo has dedicated years to Peanut’s well-being and to building an online community where Peanut’s fans could share in his delightful daily life. Many people found comfort and joy in Peanut’s lighthearted Instagram posts, especially during difficult times. Peanut’s story was one of resilience and companionship, with followers growing attached to his cheerful disposition and loving interactions with Longo.

According to New York law, it is illegal for residents to keep wild animals as pets. DEC officials pointed out that wild animals often develop abnormal attachments to humans when raised in domestic settings, which can pose risks both to the animals and to the public. "Inappropriate care given to young wildlife often results in abnormal attachment to humans," the DEC stated, explaining that rehabilitators are licensed specifically to care for wild animals and prepare them for a safe return to their natural habitats.

Despite these legal restrictions, many people feel that Peanut’s case should be treated differently, especially given his longstanding life as a companion animal and internet personality. Fans argue that Peanut was well cared for by Longo and that DEC’s actions failed to consider the bond they shared.

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On social media, fans of Peanut and critics of the DEC’s decision took to Twitter to express their anger. Some users condemned the state’s action as heartless and unnecessary, and tweets like the following reflected this sentiment:

• @GeorgeSantosNY: “This is horrible… our government has gotten to the point of removing perfectly healthy animals from a home only to k*ll them.”
• @ErinKN: “That makes me so very angry!! WTF??!! 🤬🤬🤬”
• @SGTValadez: “The government priorities in N.Y. are screwed up! Vote them OUT! #Democrats”

A Broader Look at Human-Wildlife Bonds in the Social Media Era

Peanut’s story raises questions about how pet ownership laws should adapt to our evolving relationships with animals in the digital age. While regulations exist to protect both animals and the public, unique cases like Peanut’s show that these laws don’t always account for animals who develop strong, enduring bonds with humans. In a time when animals like Peanut and Fred the raccoon can garner millions of views and followers online, policymakers may need to revisit existing wildlife regulations to address the special cases of rescue animals who become family and internet stars.

Tell Us What You Think

What are your thoughts on Peanut’s story? Do you think the DEC was right to intervene, or should exceptions be made for rescued animals that are part of human families? Share your opinion in the comments.