Authorities Euthanize Instagram-Famous Squirrel Days After Seizure

Peanut, a squirrel known for his significant and dedicated Instagram fanbase, was euthanized by New York authorities mere days after his confiscation. The state Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) conducted a raid at Mark Longo’s residence on Wednesday, prompted by reports concerning the animal’s potentially unsafe living conditions. Earlier in the week, Mr. Longo appealed to officials for Peanut’s secure return, stating on Instagram that there was a “special place in hell” for the DEC. However, authorities stated they euthanized the animal subsequent to it biting an official participating in its seizure. The DEC additionally reported the euthanasia of a raccoon named Fred, which was removed from Mr. Longo’s home during the same raid. The announcement of Peanut’s demise coincided with a petition advocating for his return, which had accumulated over 30,000 signatures by Friday afternoon. On Thursday, Mr. Longo had indicated he was collecting funds for legal expenses to challenge the DEC. A GoFundMe campaign he initiated had gathered approximately $13,500 (£10,400). He described the situation in a Friday morning post as having transformed into a “terrible nightmare”. Following Peanut’s death, Mr. Longo published the DEC’s phone number online, encouraging supporters to contact the organization to “express your feelings”. He wrote, “We will not let this be Pnuts final memory.” In a distinct Instagram story, he expressed gratitude to Peanut’s admirers for the “love and support” extended to his family and requested contributions to assist other animals housed in his “freedom farm”. A statement from the DEC indicated that an investigation commenced subsequent to receiving “multiple 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 adopted Peanut seven years prior, having discovered the infant squirrel near its mother, who had been struck by a vehicle. He provided care for Peanut until the animal was sufficiently strong for release, but stated he discovered the creature back on his porch the subsequent morning with “a chunk of his tail missing”. Since then, Peanut’s Instagram account has accumulated over 500,000 followers. The account showcases videos depicting Peanut performing skits with Mr. Longo, sometimes adorned in hats, frequently climbing on him or receiving hugs, and routinely consuming waffles.