Connecticut officials seek suspects after two squirrels found coated in neon paint

East Hartford animal control officers are investigating after residents reported two squirrels coated in bright neon paint in a residential neighborhood, officials said.

The department posted on Facebook that it received a report of “two squirrels that appear to have been painted in the area of Naubuc Avenue and High Street.” The post said the animals “appear to be okay” and asked the public to provide information that could identify those responsible.

Photos circulated by local outlets showed one squirrel with red coloring and a second with blue as they foraged in grass. As of Friday night, authorities had not identified any suspects, the department’s social media comments indicated.

Social media responses ranged from concern about animal welfare to lighthearted speculation. Some commenters suggested the coloration was the result of a prank or a gender-reveal stunt, while others posted jokes about the animals’ newfound visibility. East Hartford Animal Control did not provide additional details about how or when the squirrels were painted or whether any hazardous substances were used.

Animal advocates and local residents expressed alarm that wildlife could be targeted for pranks. State and municipal animal-control agencies generally advise that coating animals with paint or other substances can cause stress, impede natural behavior and, depending on the material, present health risks. The East Hartford post did not indicate whether the animals had been examined by wildlife rehabilitators or veterinarians.

The incident follows increased public scrutiny of human interactions with wildlife in the region. Animal-rights supporters have recently drawn attention to high-profile cases involving state wildlife agencies. In New York, litigation remains pending that could result in damages related to the killing of animals by state officers last year, according to statements from activists involved in those matters.

Local authorities asked anyone with information about the painted squirrels to contact East Hartford Animal Control through the department’s Facebook page or its nonemergency contact channels. Investigators did not indicate whether criminal charges were likely or whether paint samples would be tested to determine composition or origin.

The department’s request for public assistance is part of broader efforts by municipal animal-control units to respond to reported instances of wildlife harassment. Officials said they rely on community tips to locate victims and identify potentially dangerous behavior toward animals.

Photographs of the painted squirrels continued to circulate online as residents debated motives and expressed concern for the animals’ well-being. East Hartford Animal Control reiterated that it was seeking information to identify who was responsible and to assess any potential harm to the wildlife involved.