The union that represents New York State’s Environmental Conservation Officers is speaking out Friday, calling for a “calm” in the wake of the controversial sei

Mark Longo gained a massive following online by sharing videos of Peanut, an orphaned squirrel he rescued seven years ago.

The controversy over Peanut, the pet squirrel and social media sensation seized by the state Department of Environmental Conservation and euthanized last week, has raised questions about who can and should handle wildlife in New York.

Mark and Daniela Longo are devastated after their viral pets, Peanut the Squirrel and raccoon Fred, were seized and euthanized by New York's DEC amid controversy.

Internet-famous Peanut the squirrel was euthanized after NY wildlife officials seized him from his owner’s home, sparking widespread outrage and forcing state offices to close amid bomb threats. Learn what led to the viral pet’s controversial death.

Image via Instagram The death of Peanut the Squirrel occurred at an odd time in America — right before the presidential election. As a result, several conservative figures have latched onto the animal's euthanization as proof of government oversight.