Orlando Man Says It's 'Surreal' Officials Euthanized Orphaned Squirrel He Was Raising
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission says the squirrel was euthanized because it was 'habituated to humans'
Man says he raised the squirrel since it was a baby and was planning to release it back into the wild
An Orlando man is mourning the loss of his pet squirrel, Peanut, after it was euthanized by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). The man, who wishes to remain anonymous, said he found Peanut as an orphaned baby squirrel and had been raising it for several months.
The man said he had been planning to release Peanut back into the wild once it was old enough. However, on Monday, FWC officers came to his home and took Peanut away. The officers told the man that the squirrel was "habituated to humans" and could not be released back into the wild.
The man said he was "heartbroken" when he learned that Peanut had been euthanized. He said he had grown attached to the squirrel and considered it a part of his family.
"It's surreal," the man said. "I can't believe that they would euthanize an animal that I was planning to release back into the wild."
The FWC said in a statement that it euthanizes animals that are "habituated to humans" because they can pose a danger to both humans and other animals.
"Habituated animals can become aggressive towards humans and other animals, and they can also spread diseases," the FWC said.
The FWC said that it understands that people may become attached to wild animals, but it is important to remember that these animals are not pets.
"Wild animals belong in the wild," the FWC said. "It is not in their best interest to be kept as pets."
The man said he understands the FWC's position, but he still believes that Peanut should not have been euthanized.
"I think they could have found another solution," the man said. "They could have relocated Peanut to a wildlife sanctuary or something."
The man said he is now working to raise awareness about the issue of orphaned wildlife. He hopes that his story will help other people to understand the importance of leaving wild animals in the wild.
Conclusion
The euthanization of Peanut is a reminder that wild animals should not be kept as pets. While it can be tempting to take in an orphaned animal, it is important to remember that these animals are not domesticated and may not be able to survive in the wild if they are released.
If you find an orphaned wild animal, the best thing to do is to contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. These rehabilitators have the experience and expertise to care for orphaned animals and prepare them for release back into the wild.
