PINE CITY, N.Y. — A beloved pet squirrel named Peanut, who became a social media sensation in New York, has reportedly been seized and euthanized by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), igniting anger and sorrow among fans and wildlife advocates. Peanut, a gray squirrel who lived with owner Mark Longo in Pine City, attracted a large following online, where his playful antics and heartwarming backstory captured the attention of thousands. DEC officials, responding to complaints of “unlawfully possessed” wildlife, reportedly served a warrant at Longo’s home outside Elmira last Wednesday morning. Along with Peanut, officials also … Continue reading New York State DEC seizes and euthanizes social media star pet squirrel ‘Peanut,’ sparking outrage