New York authorities seize viral pet squirrel Peanut, owner Mark Longo launches legal campaign for return

Peanut the Squirrel, a social media star with over 500,000 followers, was taken from his home in New York by the state Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) following reports of “potentially unsafe housing.” DEC launched an investigation citing laws that prohibit wildlife as pets and concerns about public safety due to rabies.

Peanut’s owner, Mark Longo, adopted the squirrel seven years ago and started P’Nuts Freedom Farm Animal Sanctuary in his honor. Devastated by the attack, Longo shared her shock on social media and expressed hope for Peanut’s return. In response, he has launched a Change.org petition and a GoFundMe campaign to fund legal fees aimed at reuniting him with his beloved pet.