Peanut, a popular orphaned squirrel and social media star, was euthanized after state authorities seized him during a raid on his caretaker Mark Longo’s home in Pine City, New York.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) took Peanut and a raccoon named Fred due to concerns over potential rabies exposure after a person was bitten by the squirrel.

Longo, who runs an animal sanctuary, found Peanut after his mother was killed in a car accident.

Peanut had gained a large following on social media, showcasing his playful antics, the Associated Press has reported.

Longo expressed deep sorrow over the decision to euthanize Peanut and Fred, despite their efforts to have Peanut certified as an educational animal.

Written by B.C. Begley