A state wildlife raid in rural Pine City, New York, has left a local man heartbroken after his social media sensation squirrel, Peanut, was taken away by authorities. Mark Longo, 34, a mechanical engineer and animal refuge owner, is pleading for the return of his cherished pet, who has amassed hundreds of thousands of followers across various platforms.
Peanut, who was rescued by Longo seven years ago, has been a fixture in his life ever since. The squirrel’s story, which includes being orphaned after his mother was hit by a car in New York City, has captivated the hearts of many. Longo has shared numerous videos of Peanut’s antics, showcasing the squirrel’s unique personality and endearing moments, such as playing with his cat and wearing miniature cowboy hats.
However, the DEC (Department of Environmental Conservation) seized Peanut during a raid on Longo’s home, citing “multiple reports from the public about the potentially unsafe housing of wildlife that could carry rabies and the illegal keeping of wildlife as pets.” The agency also took in a raccoon named Fred, a more recent addition to Longo’s family.
Longo, who runs P’Nuts Freedom Farm Animal Sanctuary, is outraged by the DEC’s actions. He took to Instagram to express his grief, stating, “Well internet, you WON,” and addressing the anonymous complainants, “To the group of people who called DEC, there’s a special place in hell for you.”
Longo fears that Peanut has been euthanized, although the DEC has not confirmed this. He is desperate to know the fate of his beloved pet, who has been by his side for years. “I don’t know if Peanut is alive,” Longo said in a phone interview. “I don’t know where he is.”
The DEC spokesperson declined to comment on whether Peanut had been euthanized. Longo, who is aware that it’s against New York state law to own a wild animal without a license, is working to get Peanut certified as an educational animal. He is also seeking guidance from the DEC on how to comply with the law and ensure Peanut’s safe return.
This incident is not an isolated case, as a Buffalo-area man is currently suing the DEC to retrieve his 750-pound alligator, which was seized in March. Longo hopes that his situation will spark a conversation about the importance of responsible animal ownership and the need for compassion in dealing with wildlife.
