In brief
Peanut, a squirrel with over 500,000 Instagram followers, has been seized by New York authorities amid concerns about his living conditions. His caretaker, Mark Longo, is fighting to have him returned, raising funds for legal fees and gathering thousands of supporters through a petition.
In an unexpected twist for the animal-loving internet community, Peanut the squirrel, who has charmed over 500,000 followers on Instagram, has been taken by authorities amid concerns regarding his welfare. Mark Longo, the man caring for Peanut, is appealing to New York's Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), requesting the return of the animal after officials executed a raid at his home on Wednesday. This action was prompted by reports of potentially unsafe housing conditions.In a heartfelt Instagram post, Longo expressed his anger towards the whistleblowers, suggesting that those who reported him would face consequences in the afterlife. "To the group of people who called DEC, there’s a special place in hell for you," he stated, while uncertain about Peanut's current health status, including whether he had been euthanized.As the news emerged, a petition advocating for Peanut's return garnered over 20,000 signatures by Friday morning, bringing together a chorus of support from fans and animal lovers alike. Subsequent Instagram posts showed Longo rallying donations for legal fees as he prepares to contest the DEC's actions.According to a DEC statement, the agency took action after multiple public complaints concerning "the potentially unsafe housing of wildlife that could carry rabies and the illegal keeping of wildlife as pets." The condition of Peanut following the raid has not been disclosed.Longo had taken Peanut in seven years prior, after finding the baby squirrel abandoned beside his deceased mother, who had been struck by a vehicle. Following his recovery, Peanut was released, only to return to Longo's porch the following day with injury. Since then, the popular Instagram account has showcased Peanut's antics, from playful skits with his caretaker to adorable moments featuring fashionable hats and waffle feasts.During the raid alongside Peanut, authorities also confiscated a raccoon named Fred, which Longo had recently adopted. As the story unfolds, many continue to hold their breath, hoping for a happy resolution for their beloved internet idol, Peanut.
