WAS IT REALLY ABOUT THE POSSIBILITY OF RABIES?
In a case drawing criticism from around the world, Peanut the squirrel and Fred the raccon, were euthanized by New York’s Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) after being seized from Mark and Daniela Longo, who did not have the necessary permits to keep the animals. According to the DEC, one of its officers was bitten during the seizure, prompting the need to test the squirrels for rabies—a test that required euthanization.
However, public health experts and wildlife professionals point to data showing that squirrels have an extremely low risk of carrying or transmitting rabies. Nationally, of approximately 30,000 squirrels tested for rabies, only nine cases have ever returned positive. Additionally, the CDC reports no recorded instance of squirrel-to-human rabies transmission in the U.S. The DEC could have opted for a 10-day isolation period to observe the animals for symptoms, as rabies protocols typically allow this option for non-aggressive animals.
Raccoon rabies cases also sparked debate in this case. While raccoons are known rabies carriers, particularly in the eastern U.S., the CDC clarifies that raccoon-to-human transmission is uncommon, with most U.S. rabies cases resulting from bat exposure rather than raccoons.
Sources familiar with the situation, including national wildlife rehabilitators, claim that DEC officers involved acknowledged the euthanization was a contentious decision. Several of these sources suggest the agency’s decision was influenced by the Longos’ lack of proper permits, after allegedly issuing them multiple warnings. The DEC reports receiving 25 complaints related to the Longos’ handling of wildlife.
While the DEC has not held a press conference or responded to repeated email inquiries for clarification, wildlife rehabilitators say the case underscores the strict regulations on wildlife handling, especially concerning rabies vector species like raccoons. Transporting such species across state lines is particularly sensitive, as New York enforces some of the strictest wildlife control measures nationwide.
The Longos were reportedly offered assistance by experienced wildlife rehabilitators, who expressed willingness to take in Peanut and Fred and ensure their care complied with state regulations. Despite these offers, sources say, the Longos declined, asserting they could manage the animals on their own.
The DEC has not yet provided additional information on the decision or responded to requests for greater transparency.
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