Famous in New York

New York’s most famous squirrel is dead

"Peanut" - also known as P'Nut - was cuddly and lovable. "But he behaved like a celebrity," said his owner in an obituary.

(Bild: Courtesy Mark Longo via AP, File)

The famous squirrel "Peanut" from the US state of New York is dead, according to his owner Mark Longo. The animal, which has more than half a million Instagram followers, had previously been confiscated by the Environmental Protection Agency. It bit an employee there - and was quickly euthanized.

"I'm sorry for letting you down, thank you for everything," Longo wrote on a video in which he emotionally and tearfully announces the animal's death. "Thank you for bringing so much joy to us and to the world." According to Longo, the authorities had previously taken the animal from his home in Pine City.

According to the New York Times, the authorities said the animal had been euthanized to test it for rabies after it bit an employee.

Rest in peace, my best friend. Thank you for the best seven years of my life. Thank you for bringing so much joy to us and to the world.

Mark Longo

Animal kept "illegally"
Officials were responding to reports of illegal keeping of wild animals as pets, the New York Times quoted a statement from the agency. Longo had tried to get "Peanut" back.

The small rodent, with its presence on social networks, was also the face of an animal rescue center founded by Longo and his wife, according to the New York Times. The couple have already rescued more than 300 animals, including cats, dogs, horses and pigs. The money needed for this was largely raised through cute videos of "Peanut".

Mark with "Peanut"

(Bild: AP)

Squirrel "acted like a celebrity"
 Longo found the animal seven years ago in New York City. His mother had been run over by a car. The little squirrel had simply climbed up his leg on a busy street, the 34-year-old told the newspaper.

"Peanut" - also known as P'Nut - was cuddly and adorable. "But he behaved like a celebrity." He had his own room in his house. He loved to eat avocado and nibble on black walnuts.