Mark Longo, caretaker of Peanut, an internet-famous squirrel with over 500,000 Instagram followers, is pleading with New York authorities to return the beloved animal after it was seized by the state’s Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC).
Following public complaints about Peanut’s living conditions, DEC officials raided Longo’s home, removing Peanut and a recently acquired raccoon named Fred.
The seizure has sparked a viral petition for Peanut’s return, amassing more than 20,000 signatures as of Friday. Longo expressed frustration on Instagram, remarking, “To the group of people who called DEC, there’s a special place in hell for you,” and announced a fundraiser to cover his legal expenses.
Peanut, who Longo rescued seven years ago after finding him injured beside his deceased mother, has been a staple on social media, known for skits and moments of bonding with Longo.
The DEC stated they were investigating reports of “potentially unsafe housing” for wildlife that could carry rabies, as well as concerns regarding the legality of keeping wildlife as pets. Although the agency has not disclosed Peanut’s current condition, fans continue to rally behind Longo’s efforts to bring Peanut home, worried for the squirrel’s well-being.
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