In a twist of events that has captured both local and online communities, a popular squirrel named Peanut, known for his vast Instagram following, was seized by New York state authorities, prompting an outcry from his caretaker, Mark Longo.
Squirrel Star: Authorities Seize Internet Sensation Peanut Amid Controversy
Squirrel Star: Authorities Seize Internet Sensation Peanut Amid Controversy
Mark Longo fights to reclaim his beloved squirrel, Peanut, known for his massive Instagram following, after authorities intervene citing safety concerns.
Mark Longo, the man responsible for the Instagram-famous squirrel named Peanut, is ardently seeking the return of the animal after it was confiscated by the state Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). The seizure occurred following multiple complaints regarding allegedly unsafe living conditions for Peanut. Longo, who had been caring for Peanut for seven years, took to social media to express his outrage, remarking, "To the group of people who called DEC, there’s a special place in hell for you." He also raised concerns over whether the popular squirrel had been euthanized during the process.
The DEC stated that the investigation was spurred by public reports about potential health risks associated with keeping wildlife as pets, raising concerns about rabies and animal safety. A petition for Peanut's return has quickly gained traction, boasting over 20,000 signatures by Friday morning, as supporters rally behind Longo.
Peanut's Instagram account, which has garnered more than 500,000 followers, features endearing videos of the squirrel engaging in playful antics with Longo, often donning hats or sharing his love for waffles. Longo discovered Peanut when he was just a baby squirrel, orphaned after his mother was sadly hit by a car. He nurtured Peanut back to health, with plans to release him eventually, only to find the squirrel returning to him shortly after.
In addition to Peanut, the DEC also seized a recently acquired raccoon named Fred during the raid. The current status and welfare of both animals remain uncertain, as the community watches the situation unfold with concern and support for Longo.
The DEC stated that the investigation was spurred by public reports about potential health risks associated with keeping wildlife as pets, raising concerns about rabies and animal safety. A petition for Peanut's return has quickly gained traction, boasting over 20,000 signatures by Friday morning, as supporters rally behind Longo.
Peanut's Instagram account, which has garnered more than 500,000 followers, features endearing videos of the squirrel engaging in playful antics with Longo, often donning hats or sharing his love for waffles. Longo discovered Peanut when he was just a baby squirrel, orphaned after his mother was sadly hit by a car. He nurtured Peanut back to health, with plans to release him eventually, only to find the squirrel returning to him shortly after.
In addition to Peanut, the DEC also seized a recently acquired raccoon named Fred during the raid. The current status and welfare of both animals remain uncertain, as the community watches the situation unfold with concern and support for Longo.
