New York authorities seize viral pet Peanut the squirrel, owner launches legal campaign for return

Peanut the Squirrel was seized by New York authorities over concerns related to housing and wildlife laws.

Peanut the Squirrel, a social media star with over 500,000 followers, was taken from his New York home by the state’s Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) following reports of "potentially unsafe housing." The DEC initiated an investigation, citing laws prohibiting wildlife as pets and public safety concerns due to rabies.

Peanut’s owner, Mark Longo, adopted the squirrel seven years ago and started P'Nuts Freedom Farm Animal Sanctuary in his honor. Devastated by the seizure, Longo shared his shock on social media, expressing hope for Peanut’s return. In response, he has launched a Change.org petition and a GoFundMe campaign to fund legal fees aimed at reuniting him with his beloved pet.