Peanut the Squirrel, a beloved internet-famous pet, was recently seized and euthanized by New York State officials, sparking outrage and widespread reaction on social media.
The New York Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) confiscated Peanut, along with a raccoon named Fred, from Mark Longo, who ran an animal sanctuary in Pine City, New York. Authorities cited complaints about illegally kept wildlife as the reason for the seizure, which resulted in both animals being euthanized. Peanut, who had more than 550,000 followers on Instagram, was a favorite among animal lovers, and his passing has left a significant impact on his online community.
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A Viral Reaction
Peanut’s fans took to social media with shock and dismay. Many shared memes expressing sorrow, while others voiced frustration toward the authorities. One prominent post included Elon Musk’s comment, “President Trump will save the squirrels,” accompanied by an image of Peanut perched on Longo’s shoulder.
“If you strike me down, I will become more powerful than you could possibly imagine” Obi PNut Kenobi pic.twitter.com/dD2Xo0fSkr
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) November 2, 2024
Public response varied from humorous to deeply critical. Memes circulated with references to popular culture, including a comparison to the fictional character John Wick, hinting at fans’ anger over Peanut’s treatment. The Babylon Bee, a satire website, ran the headline “Radicalized Squirrels in MAGA Hats Begin Uprising,” capturing the mix of humor and frustration felt by many.
The Internet after hearing what they did to Peanut the Squirrel pic.twitter.com/FxpD7TNEFQ
— Mostly Peaceful Memes (@MostlyPeacefull) November 2, 2024
Peanut’s Journey and Popularity
Peanut’s story began seven years ago when Longo rescued him as a baby after his mother was hit by a car. Peanut quickly bonded with Longo and his wife, refusing to return to the wild and instead becoming a cherished pet. Last year, the couple founded “P’Nut’s Freedom Farm,” inspired by Peanut’s popularity and the couple’s passion for animal rescue. Peanut became the face of their sanctuary, where they cared for a variety of animals and shared updates on social media, capturing hearts with Peanut’s playful antics and unique personality.
Peanut’s dedicated Instagram following grew to over half a million, making him a significant online presence. Longo frequently posted videos and photos of Peanut in various adorable situations, such as wearing a tiny cowboy hat or munching on peanuts, delighting fans around the world.
RIP Peanut 🐿️ pic.twitter.com/KGHfEOhr9E
— Chief Nerd (@TheChiefNerd) November 2, 2024
The Seizure and Its Impact on Longo
The seizure of Peanut was a deeply distressing event for Longo and his wife. In a heartfelt interview, Longo described the experience of watching his home being searched by multiple DEC officers, who, he said, treated him like a criminal. The raid was reportedly conducted with a search warrant approved by several departments, allowing officers to search every part of Longo’s home.
Reminder: Kamala’s party executed a cute pet squirrel named Peanut this week because they’re lunatics. Vote Trump to avenge Peanut!
— Robby Starbuck (@robbystarbuck) November 2, 2024
Serious note: If Trump works Peanut into his speech with a RIP graphic behind him, this race is officially over. We want justice for Peanut! pic.twitter.com/kHdlN0WtpE
Longo recounted being forced to sit outside his home for hours under police supervision, unable to tend to his other animals. He said that authorities even questioned his wife’s immigration status during the ordeal, adding to the emotional toll. “Peanut was the cornerstone of our non-profit animal rescue,” Longo shared, expressing his grief over the loss.
DEC’s Justification and Public Outcry
According to the DEC, Peanut and the raccoon were euthanized to test for rabies, as New York law requires special licensing to keep wild animals. Although Longo had been in the process of obtaining certification for Peanut as an educational animal, the legalities around keeping the animals led to their seizure.
The DEC’s decision has received backlash from Peanut’s fans and animal advocates, who question the necessity of euthanizing the animals. Many believe that Peanut and Fred posed no harm and argue that other options, such as relocating them to an accredited sanctuary, could have been pursued. Peanut’s fans, already a close-knit community, have rallied around Longo in this difficult time, expressing support and condolences.
Longo’s Tribute to Peanut
After the ordeal, Longo took to Instagram, visibly emotional, to share a tribute to Peanut. Holding a framed drawing of his beloved pet, he thanked Peanut for bringing joy into their lives and the lives of countless fans. “Peanut was the best thing that ever happened to us,” Longo said, expressing his heartbreak over losing him.
In a touching post, Longo wrote, “RIP MY BEST FRIEND. Thank you for the best seven years of my life. Thank you for bringing so much joy to us and the world. I’m sorry I failed you but thank you for everything.” The outpouring of support from followers has been immense, with many fans sharing memories and photos of Peanut to keep his memory alive.
The owners of #Peanut the squirrel are going nuclear on government officials in New York, accusing the state of abusing power and wasting taxpayer funds to seize and kill their pet. Watch their full interview on @TMZLive here: https://t.co/1rXzVTABx1 pic.twitter.com/rtHpBOl14x
— TMZ (@TMZ) November 1, 2024
Reflection on Wild Animal Ownership
Peanut’s story has sparked renewed debate over the ownership of wild animals as pets. While Peanut brought happiness to many, the incident underscores the challenges and legal complications that can arise when caring for wildlife. The incident has led some to question whether stricter or more flexible laws might better protect both people and animals.
As Peanut’s fans continue to honor his memory, his story serves as a reminder of the emotional connections people form with animals and the responsibility of balancing compassion with legal boundaries. For now, Peanut’s legacy lives on in the hearts of his followers, who continue to share his joyful moments and celebrate the impact he had on their lives.