In brief
Social media users rally for the return of Peanut, as discussions unfold surrounding animal care and legalities of keeping wildlife as pets.
In a shocking turn of events, authorities from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) seized an Instagram-famous squirrel named Peanut, prompting an outcry from his caretaker Mark Longo and over 20,000 supporters rallying for the pet's return. Peanut, who boasts an impressive following of 500,000 on social media, has captivated the internet with his playful antics, often featured alongside Longo in delightful videos showcasing the squirrel's quirky personality.The raid occurred on Wednesday following multiple complaints from the public concerning the alleged unsafe conditions under which Peanut was being kept. Longo expressed his heartbreak on his Instagram account, admonishing those who reported him by suggesting they hold a "special place in hell" while also revealing his fears regarding Peanut's wellbeing, including uncertainty about whether the squirrel had been euthanized.Longo’s plea for Peanut has been echoed online, with fans of the furry influencer quickly gathering signatures on a petition demanding his return. In an effort to fight the DEC's decision, Longo also mentioned fundraising efforts aimed at covering legal fees necessary to contest the seizure. According to the DEC, the confiscation was part of an ongoing investigation related to complaints about wildlife housing conditions that raise health and safety concerns, particularly due to potential rabies risk and the legality of keeping wildlife as pets.Peanut's origins trace back to seven years ago when Longo found the injured infant squirrel abandoned after its mother was killed. After nurturing Peanut back to health, he returned the squirrel to the wild, only to find him the next day, injured with a part of his tail missing. Since then, the two have developed a close bond, with Peanut emerging as a social media star known for his charming videos often featuring adorable hats, playful choreography, and indulgent waffle treats.Alongside Peanut, the DEC's raid also resulted in the confiscation of another animal, a raccoon named Fred, highlighting the broader implications of wildlife captivity laws in the U.S. The fate of both animals, especially Peanut's, remains uncertain, and the public response continues to raise questions about animal welfare rights, responsible pet ownership, and the intersection of social media fame with wildlife care.
