East Hartford Animal Control Investigates Mystery of Painted Squirrels

East Hartford Animal Control is digging into a strange case after two wild squirrels turned up painted bright red and blue. This happened in a neighborhood near Naubuc Avenue and High Street.

The animals don’t seem physically hurt, but the whole thing has the community pretty upset. People are asking some tough questions about wildlife safety and cruelty in Connecticut.

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Painted Squirrels Discovered in East Hartford

It all started when folks spotted two squirrels—one painted completely red, the other blue—running through the area. Animal Control shared photos online, and those images quickly made the rounds on social media.

The sight of such colorful squirrels against the usual backdrop really caught people off guard. It was hard to ignore.

Location and Initial Observations

East Hartford Animal Control said the squirrels showed up near Naubuc Avenue and High Street, right by people’s homes. Officials checked them out and, for now, say the animals aren’t seriously hurt.

Still, people worry about what the paint or chemicals might do to the squirrels over time. Nobody really knows how long-term exposure could play out for them.

Concerns Over Animal Cruelty and Public Safety

Animal welfare experts say painting wild animals isn’t just a harmless prank. Paint can be toxic, and the whole ordeal can seriously stress the animal out.

Authorities from Hartford to Manchester point out that this could actually count as animal cruelty under Connecticut law. That’s not something to take lightly.

Possible Risks to Wildlife

Even if the squirrels look okay at first, chemicals might damage their fur or skin, or even mess with their internal systems. The paint could also make it harder for them to blend in, leaving them more exposed to predators.

Wildlife advocates in places like West Hartford, New Britain, and Southington argue that this kind of human interference just throws nature out of balance. It’s not something we should ignore.

Officials Seek Public Assistance

East Hartford Animal Control wants the community to help figure out who did this. If you know anything, you can call them at 860-291-7572.

Someone out there probably saw something. Maybe it was just a glimpse, but every bit helps.

Community Response

This story has already hit a nerve with people from Glastonbury to Middletown. Locals are venting on community boards, demanding tougher wildlife protections and stricter penalties for whoever’s responsible.

Some folks are also using the moment to push for better education about treating wildlife with respect. Maybe this is a wake-up call for all of us.

Legal and Ethical Implications

Connecticut has state and federal laws that protect wildlife. If you intentionally change a wild animal’s appearance—especially with paint—you could be charged with harassment or cruelty.

That could mean fines, community service, or even criminal charges. It’s not worth the risk for a quick laugh.

How Residents Can Help Protect Wildlife

Animal control agencies want residents to step up and help protect local wildlife. Reporting anything suspicious is a good start.

It also helps to teach kids why leaving animals alone matters. Respect goes a long way.

Report any suspected wildlife harassment to local animal control.
Avoid approaching or handling wild animals without proper training.
Keep pets secured to reduce risk to local wildlife.
Support community initiatives that promote environmental stewardship.
Share accurate information to raise awareness.

Looking Ahead

East Hartford officials hope this unsettling case reminds us of our responsibility to the environment. The painted squirrels might eventually shed their altered fur, but the incident has left a mark across Connecticut towns and cities, from Stamford to Waterbury.

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Here is the source article for this story: East Hartford animal control investigating mystery of painted squirrels

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