Internet-famous Peanut the squirrel was euthanized after NY wildlife officials seized him from his owner’s home, sparking widespread outrage and forcing state offices to close amid bomb threats. Learn what led to the viral pet’s controversial death.

Image via Instagram Peanut The Squirrel may be gone, but its owner isn't prepared to give up the fight. Mark Longo is planning to sue after the Department of Environmental Conservation took the squirrel away and euthanized it.

Mark Longo gained a massive following online by sharing videos of Peanut, an orphaned squirrel he rescued seven years ago.

The controversy over Peanut, the pet squirrel and social media sensation seized by the state Department of Environmental Conservation and euthanized last week, has raised questions about who can and should handle wildlife in New York.

Mark and Daniela Longo live in Pine City, New York, near Pennsylvania. Mark, a 34-year-old mechanical engineer, started P'Nuts Freedom Farm Animal Sanctuary in 2023. The sanctuary, named after Peanut the Squirrel,

Image via Instagram The death of Peanut the Squirrel occurred at an odd time in America — right before the presidential election. As a result, several conservative figures have latched onto the animal's euthanization as proof of government oversight.