Instagram-Famous Squirrel Peanut Euthanised In New York, Elon Musk Says 'Trump Will Save...'

The officials also took a raccoon named Fred after the agency learned the animals were sharing a residence with humans, creating the potential for human exposure to rabies.

By : ABP News Bureau | Updated at : 03 Nov 2024 12:01 PM (IST)

Instagram-Famous Squirrel Peanut Euthanised In New York Elon Musk Said This Instagram-Famous Squirrel Peanut Euthanised In New York, Elon Musk Says 'Trump Will Save...'

Peanut had 537,000 followers on Instagram.

Source : Instagram

Peanut, the famous squirrel with 537,000 followers on Instagram, has been euthanised in New York after authorities seized it during a raid on its caretaker Mark Longo's home, news agency The Associated Press reported citing officials.

The officials also took a raccoon named Fred after the agency learned the animals were sharing a residence with humans, creating the potential for human exposure to rabies, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation said.

Peanut and Fred were euthanized to test for rabies, the government statement read. One of the officials involved in the investigation was bitten by the squirrel.

"On Oct. 30, DEC seized a raccoon and squirrel sharing a residence with humans, creating the potential for human exposure to rabies. In addition, a person involved in the investigation was bitten by the squirrel. To test for rabies, both animals were euthanized," the AP reported citing agencies.

"The animals are being tested for rabies and anyone who has been in contact with these animals is strongly encouraged to consult their physician," it added.

Peanut Was My Best Friend, Says Its Owner

Longo, who runs an animal sanctuary, took the squirrel after seeing its mother get hit by a car in New York City seven years ago.
Longo said he was in shock, disbelief and disgusted. "For the last seven years, Peanut has been my best friend," he wrote in an Instagram post.

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A post shared by Peanut The Squirrel (@peanut_the_squirrel12)

"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 (the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation), there's a special place in hell for you," Longo added.

Government Should Leave People, Their Animals Alone: Musk

X CEO Elon Musk extended condolences to Longo over the death of Peanut. He said Republican presidential candidate Donald will save the squirrels. "President @realDonaldTrump will save the squirrels 🐿️ 😢 RIP P’Nut," Musk wrote in a post on X.