Famous social media squirrel seized in raid following anonymous complaints | american news

On November 1, 2024By Littum

A squirrel that became famous on social media has been seized in a raid, with the animal’s owner fearing that authorities in New York will euthanize him.

The squirrel, named Peanut, was rescued by Mark Longo seven years ago after he saw his mother hit by a car in New York City.

With more than 533,000 followers on Instagram, the unusual pet could be seen wearing a cowboy hat, nibbling on waffles, jumping through hoops and sitting on the 34-year-old’s shoulder.

After a series of anonymous complaints, New York’s The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) seized Peanut – as well as a raccoon named Fred – from the man’s home in Pine City on Wednesday.

A spokesman for the government agency said it received “several reports from the public about the potentially unsafe housing of wildlife that could carry rabies and the illegal keeping of wildlife as pets”.

Mr. Longo, who runs an animal sanctuary inspired by his squirrel called P’Nuts Freedom Farm Animal Sanctuary, said, “DEC came to my house and raided my house without a search warrant to find a squirrel!

“I was treated like I was a drug dealer and they went after drugs and guns.”

The squirrel’s owner added: “I don’t know if Peanut is alive… I don’t know where he is.”

The DEC spokesman did not comment on whether the squirrel had been euthanized.

After taking the squirrel to his former home in Norwalk, Connecticut, Mr. Longo Peanut for eight months before trying to release him into the wild.

But nearly two days later, the conservationist found the squirrel “sitting on my front porch missing half of its tail with the bones sticking out” and determined it could not survive in the wild.

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He also suggested on Instagram that social media users report the squirrel to the DEC, saying “Well internet, you WON.

“You took one of the most amazing animals away from me because of your selfishness. To the group of people who called the DEC, there is a special place in hell for you.”

It is against New York State law to own a wild animal – such as a squirrel – without a license. Mr. Longo said he was aware of this and filed paperwork to certify Peanut as an educational animal before the raid.

He added, “If we don’t follow the rules, guide us in the right direction to follow the rules, you know?”

Mr. Longo has since launched a petition and fundraiser calling for Peanut’s return.

Sky News has contacted the DEC for further comment.