Official announcements or updates from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

NY DEC Euthanizes Instagram-Famous Squirrel Peanut after Raid on Owner Mark Longo's Home

Nov 1, 2024, 07:45 PM

New York state authorities have seized and euthanized Peanut, an Instagram-famous pet squirrel with over 500,000 followers known for donning a cowboy hat. The squirrel's owner, Mark Longo of Pine City near the Pennsylvania border, rescued Peanut as an orphaned squirrel seven years ago after its mother was hit by a car. On October 31, the New York Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) conducted a five-hour raid on Longo's home after receiving multiple anonymous complaints regarding unsafe housing of wildlife and 'wildlife gone wild.' The raid involved at least six officers and, according to Longo, was carried out without a search warrant. Authorities seized Peanut and a raccoon named Fred during the raid. The DEC confirmed that both animals were euthanized within 48 hours to test for rabies. Longo expressed outrage, stating he was treated as if he were a drug dealer and is now pleading for answers. Supporters have rallied with online petitions and donations seeking justice for Peanut.