A famous squirrel was taken from his home and killed after authorities claimed it bit an official.
You may recognise Peanut the Squirrel and not just because he looks like your everyday wild rodent, but because he probably popped up on your feed at one point or another.
The friendly squirrel catapulted to fame seven years ago as its owners dressed it up in cute outfits, one of which being a cowboy, and taught it tricks - which gained the fluffy-tailed creature national recognition.
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Tragically, its days were numbered as the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) seized the animal alongside 'Fred the raccoon', before euthanizing them both on Wednesday (October 30).
Taking to Instagram to share the news, its owner Mark Longo wrote: "Well internet, you WON.
"You took one of the most amazing animals away from me because of your selfishness. To the group of people who called DEC, there’s a special place in hell for you.
"Today at 10am Wednesday, Oct 30, 2024… The NY State DEC showed up to my house and took Peanut. He was TAKEN to the EUTHANIZED. I'm in shock, disbelief, and disgusted to the people who did this to PNUT.
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"For the last 7 years, Peanut has been my best friend. He’s been the center of my world and many of yours for so long, I don’t know how to process this, emotionally."
He continued: "Last year we moved to NY in hopes of starting a NONPROFIT animal rescue in PNUT’s Name. @pnuts_freedom_farm will forever live in PNUT’s memory.
"With over 350 rescues, we’ve relied heavily on PNUT and his internet family to gather donations to help more animals.
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"I don’t even know how will continue to fundraise for this nonprofit. I’ll be taking a break from social media for a bit. To the people who did this… THANK YOU for breaking apart a family and crushing any hopes of our nonprofit to survive.
"I want to thank those who have stuck by up for the last 7 years to watch peanut and his antic. I will set up a fundraiser for those who want to donate in Peanut's name. I’ll never give up on this nonprofit or those who fell in love with peanut. Thank you all. Mark Longo."
According to WETM, the DEC claimed that Peanut bit an investigator on the hand while being confiscated from his home in Elmira.
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A statement read: “In addition, a person involved with the investigation was bitten by the squirrel. To test for rabies, both animals were euthanized.
"The animals are being tested for rabies and anyone who has been in contact with these animals is strongly encouraged to consult their physician."
Rest in peace, Peanut and Fred.
Topics: Animal Cruelty, Social Media, US News
Joe Yates