Peanut, a black squirrel who charmed half a million followers on Instagram, was euthanized this week after New York authorities cited health risks linked to rabies exposure. The squirrel’s devoted fanbase mourned the loss, sparking a wave of support and criticism online. With 537,000 followers, Peanut’s daily adventures brought joy to fans worldwide. Images of the squirrel nibbling waffles or dressed in miniature costumes captured hearts and made Peanut a unique fixture on social media.

A rescued squirrel with a worldwide fanbase

New Yorker Mark Longo rescued Peanut after the squirrel’s mother was killed by a car, initially caring for the animal in hopes it would return to the wild. Despite attempts to release him, Peanut, missing part of his tail, returned to Longo, who continued to care for him for seven years. The two became inseparable, with Longo documenting their life together on Instagram under the handle peanut_the_squirrel12.

“Internet, you WON,” Longo wrote, grieving Peanut’s loss. “You took one of the most amazing animals away from me because of your selfishness.” He expressed shock and sadness over the ordeal, describing Peanut as his “best friend” for nearly a decade.

Health concerns lead to euthanization

According to a joint statement from the Chemung County Department of Health and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), Peanut and a raccoon living with Longo were deemed to be illegally possessed. Concerns about human exposure to rabies led to the animals’ euthanization to facilitate testing.

“On October 30, DEC seized a raccoon and squirrel sharing a residence with humans, creating the potential for human exposure to rabies,” the DEC statement noted. The squirrel allegedly bit a government staff member involved in the investigation, furthering the necessity for testing.

Longo has called on his followers to support his efforts to cover legal fees and continue his advocacy for animal rescue. In an Instagram post, he stated, “The fight goes on,” signaling his intention to establish an animal sanctuary.