In brief
Mark Longo, the caretaker of Peanut, has launched a campaign to reclaim the popular squirrel after officials from the DEC confiscated the animal, initiating a wave of public sentiment supporting the return of the beloved pet.
The saga began this past Wednesday when authorities raided Longo's home, addressing allegations about possibly unsafe conditions for Peanut, an ash-colored squirrel with a following of over 500,000 on Instagram. Longo expressed his discontent publicly, blaming anonymous informants for the situation and suggesting there’s a “special place in hell” for them. As the crisis deepens, Longo announced a petition to reclaim Peanut, garnering more than 20,000 signatures in just one day. In subsequent social media posts, Longo also shared his efforts to raise funds for legal challenges against the DEC. The agency has reportedly intensified their scrutiny following "multiple reports" regarding the housing conditions of wild animals and the legality of their captivity as pets. However, it remains unclear how Peanut is faring in the wake of the seizure.Longo's emotional connection with Peanut dates back seven years when he rescued the baby squirrel after a tragic accident that claimed its mother's life. Since then, Peanut has become a social media sensation, featuring playful videos, adorable outfits, and charming antics with Longo, often including food, particularly waffles.The ongoing situation escalated with the confiscation of another animal, a raccoon named Fred, further complicating the unfolding narrative of animal welfare and the responsibilities of pet ownership. As the DEC investigates, the public remains divided, with many hoping for a swift return of Peanut to Longo's care.
