Instagram-Famous Squirrel Seized and Euthanised by US Authorities
Popular squirrel's death sparks outrage and questions about animal welfare
Social media star Darius the Squirrel had over 100,000 followers
Darius the Squirrel, a popular Instagram star with over 100,000 followers, has been seized and euthanised by US authorities. The squirrel was taken from his owner, who is based in Tennessee, after the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) received a complaint that he was being kept illegally.
The USDA said that Darius was not properly licensed and that his owner had failed to provide him with adequate care. The squirrel was taken to a local animal shelter, where he was euthanised.
The death of Darius has sparked outrage among his fans and animal rights activists. Many have questioned why the USDA took such drastic action, arguing that Darius was a well-cared-for animal who posed no threat to public health.
The USDA has defended its actions, saying that it is responsible for enforcing the Animal Welfare Act, which prohibits the keeping of certain animals as pets. The agency said that Darius was a wild animal and that it was not appropriate for him to be kept in captivity.
The case of Darius has raised important questions about the keeping of wild animals as pets. Some argue that it is cruel to keep wild animals in captivity, while others believe that it can be beneficial for the animals, providing them with a safe and stable environment.
The USDA has said that it will continue to investigate the case of Darius and that it will take appropriate action against anyone who violates the Animal Welfare Act.
Timeline of events
- March 2023: Darius the Squirrel is seized by the USDA from his owner in Tennessee.
- March 2023: Darius is taken to a local animal shelter.
- March 2023: Darius is euthanised by the USDA.
Key facts
- Darius the Squirrel had over 100,000 followers on Instagram.
- The USDA seized Darius from his owner after receiving a complaint that he was being kept illegally.
- The USDA said that Darius was not properly licensed and that his owner had failed to provide him with adequate care.
- The death of Darius has sparked outrage among his fans and animal rights activists.
- The USDA has defended its actions, saying that it is responsible for enforcing the Animal Welfare Act, which prohibits the keeping of certain animals as pets.
Questions and answers
Q: Why did the USDA seize Darius the Squirrel?A: The USDA seized Darius because he was being kept illegally. His owner did not have a license and failed to provide him with adequate care.
Q: Why did the USDA euthanise Darius?A: The USDA euthanised Darius because he was a wild animal and it was not appropriate for him to be kept in captivity.
Q: What is the Animal Welfare Act?A: The Animal Welfare Act is a US federal law that regulates the treatment of animals in research, exhibition, and transport.
Q: What are the penalties for violating the Animal Welfare Act?A: The penalties for violating the Animal Welfare Act can include fines and imprisonment.
