Heartbreak for fans as New York authorities euthanize beloved internet star 'Peanut' the Squirrel
The squirrel, along with a raccoon named Fred, was taken from a Pine City home during a recent raid by New York’s Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), reportedly due to concerns over potential rabies exposure.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — Peanut, an orphaned squirrel who captured hearts and gained tens of thousands of followers on social media, has been euthanized by New York state authorities, sparking a wave of grief and anger from fans and animal rights advocates.
The squirrel, along with a raccoon named Fred, was taken from a Pine City home during a recent raid by New York’s Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), reportedly due to concerns over potential rabies exposure.
According to DEC officials, the animals were confiscated from the home of Mark Longo, who had cared for Peanut for seven years.
After Longo witnessed Peanut’s mother get struck by a car in New York City, he brought the orphaned squirrel to his care.
Later on, Peanut became the inspiration for Longo to open his animal sanctuary, P'Nuts Freedom Farm, which he and his wife, Daniela, opened in 2023 to care for animals in need.
Peanut soon became a social media sensation, delighting fans with videos showing his playful antics, from jumping through hoops to wearing tiny hats.
However, authorities state that Peanut and Fred posed a potential health risk.
In a statement released by DEC and Chemung County’s Department of Health, officials explained the decision: “On Oct. 30, DEC officers seized a raccoon and squirrel that were being kept in close proximity to humans, which raised concerns for rabies exposure. Additionally, an individual involved with the case reported being bitten by the squirrel. Both animals were euthanized to allow for rabies testing.”
The news has left fans and supporters of Peanut devastated.
A heartfelt post on Peanut's Instagram account shared the family’s sorrow: "It is with profound grief that we announce the loss of our beloved Peanut and Fred. Despite our pleas for compassion, authorities chose to ignore our requests, leaving us shocked and heartbroken."
The post was accompanied by a video tribute to the animals, showing Peanut happily interacting with his caretakers.
Longo, who was reportedly seeking to have Peanut certified as an educational animal before the raid, said the decision to euthanize the animals left him feeling helpless.
“We fought hard to keep them safe, but it feels like their lives meant nothing,” he told reporters.
As the investigation continues, many of Peanut's fans are rallying online, demanding answers and seeking justice for the animal who had brought them so much joy.