When Mark Longo rescued a tiny orphaned squirrel he named Peanut, he never imagined it would end in heartbreak. Peanut quickly became a social media sensation, winning thousands of fans with adorable antics and costumes. But the joy this little squirrel brought was cut short when New York state officials seized and euthanized Peanut, sparking outrage and a vow from Longo to seek justice. Here’s the story of Peanut, his rescue, and the shocking events that led to his tragic end.
The Tale of Peanut the Squirrel
Mark Longo found Peanut seven years ago after the squirrel’s mother was killed by a car. Longo took in the tiny, helpless creature, feeding him, caring for him, and eventually watching Peanut grow into a beloved pet. Peanut’s personality shone online, where thousands of fans enjoyed watching him nibble on snacks, wear tiny hats, and do tricks. Peanut had become a symbol of resilience and cuteness, an unlikely star with a huge following, and part of Longo’s family.
An Unwelcome Visit from State Officials
On a quiet day in Pine City, officials from the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) knocked on Longo’s door, armed with complaints that wild animals were being kept illegally and unsafely. Longo, who runs a small animal sanctuary, was stunned by the accusations and even more shocked by the DEC’s forceful approach. During the hours-long inspection, they searched every corner of his home, and, without warning, they confiscated Peanut and Fred, a rescued raccoon. Longo recalls the experience as surreal, feeling blindsided by the sudden and heavy-handed raid.
The Law’s Tight Grip on Wild Animal Ownership
In New York, owning a wild animal like a squirrel requires a special license, something Longo was actively working on. He was in the process of getting Peanut certified as an educational animal, hoping to share Peanut’s story in schools and other venues. However, the law left little room for gray areas. The DEC, citing complaints and public health risks, proceeded with their actions, leaving Longo scrambling to defend his beloved pets. To Longo, Peanut wasn’t just “wildlife”—he was family, and a legal technicality shouldn’t have torn them apart.
Peanut’s Unlikely Demise: The Bite That Wasn’t Seen
According to officials, Peanut had bitten someone during the inspection, triggering the drastic decision to euthanize both the squirrel and the raccoon to test for rabies. But Longo swears he saw no bite happen. To him, it was an excuse, a convenient reason for officials to take a strict stance against keeping wild animals. Longo was devastated to learn that instead of quarantine or isolation, the state’s first move was euthanasia. In his eyes, Peanut and Fred had been judged and sentenced without evidence, an outcome that felt deeply unfair and heartbreaking.
Longo’s Criticism of State Resources
Longo didn’t mince words about his frustration with New York state’s handling of the situation. “We will make a stance,” he said firmly, hinting at his plans to challenge the state’s decision. He criticized the use of resources on what he saw as an unnecessary and harsh response. In Longo’s view, the focus on Peanut was misplaced when there are far larger issues that need attention. This battle, he vowed, would not end with Peanut’s passing, and he’s determined to make officials answer for their actions.
A Squirrel Who Brought People Together
To Peanut’s fans, he wasn’t just a pet—he was a source of joy. People loved watching him nibble on waffles, tug at hats, and sit comfortably in Longo’s arms. Peanut’s online presence brought smiles to countless faces and fostered a community of animal lovers. After hearing of Peanut’s sudden death, many followers took to social media to share their grief, with fans from all over expressing support for Longo. Peanut’s legacy will live on in the hearts of his fans, and his memory is a reminder of the bond humans can form with even the most unlikely animals.
Seeking Justice for Peanut and Fred
Longo hasn’t given up. Though he’s still mourning, he’s gearing up to make sure that what happened to Peanut won’t happen again. While he hasn’t shared specifics, he plans to hold officials accountable, speaking out on the use of authority in situations like his. Longo hopes to raise awareness about laws around wildlife ownership, especially for those who are trying to help, not harm. For now, his focus is on honoring Peanut and Fred’s memory and ensuring that the pain of this experience leads to positive change.
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