Internet-Famous Squirrel Peanut Seized: Owner Pleads for Return After DEC Raid

Internet-Famous Squirrel Peanut Seized

Mark Longo, the caretaker of a popular internet squirrel named Peanut, is appealing to New York authorities for the return of the animal after it was seized during a raid by the state Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). The raid occurred on Wednesday following complaints about potentially unsafe housing conditions for Peanut.

In an emotional Instagram post, Longo criticized those who reported him to the DEC, expressing his anger and concern for Peanut's well-being. He is uncertain about the squirrel's fate, particularly whether it has been euthanized. This uncertainty has prompted him to seek support from the public.

A petition advocating for Peanut’s return has quickly gained traction, collecting over 20,000 signatures by Friday morning. Longo has also begun raising funds for legal fees to contest the DEC’s actions and regain custody of his pet.

The DEC initiated its investigation based on multiple public reports regarding the unsafe housing of wildlife and the illegal keeping of wild animals as pets. However, they have not provided details about Peanut’s current condition since the seizure.

Longo rescued Peanut seven years ago after finding him abandoned beside his deceased mother. Since then, Peanut has gained a significant following on Instagram, with over 500,000 followers enjoying videos of the squirrel engaging in playful antics with Longo. The DEC also seized another animal during the raid, a raccoon named Fred that Longo had recently adopted.

Internet-Famous Squirrel Peanut Seized: Owner Pleads for Return After DEC Raid