Instagram-Famous Squirrel Named Peanut Seized by New York State Authorities

New York state authorities have seized Peanut, a popular Instagram-famous pet squirrel, from the home of its owner, Mark Longo, in Pine City. The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) executed the removal on October 30, 2024, following multiple anonymous tips regarding the potentially unsafe housing of wildlife and the illegal keeping of wild animals as pets.

Mark Longo, who manages the P’Nuts Freedom Farm Animal Sanctuary, had been caring for Peanut for nearly seven years after rescuing the squirrel when its mother was hit by a car. Peanut had gained a significant social media following, with over 533,000 followers on Instagram and 423,000 followers on Facebook. Longo was in the process of certifying Peanut as an educational animal but had not yet obtained the necessary permits.

The DEC’s investigation was prompted by concerns about the safety risks associated with keeping wildlife, particularly the potential for rabies. Along with Peanut, authorities also seized an injured raccoon named Fred, which Longo had been caring for with the intention of releasing it back into the woods.

Longo has expressed his distress over the seizure, fearing that Peanut might be euthanized. He has not received any confirmation from the DEC regarding the squirrel’s current status. In response, Longo has initiated a Change.org petition and a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for legal fees to help in the effort to return Peanut to his home.

The incident has sparked a broader discussion about the challenges and ethical considerations of keeping wildlife as pets, especially in rescue and sanctuary environments. Supporters of P’Nuts Freedom Farm are rallying behind Longo, questioning the DEC’s actions and demanding more information about the current status of Peanut and Fred.