When Punch was abandoned at birth, a stuffed orangutan became his constant companion, turning the tiny macaque into an unlikely social media star. And now, something has begun to change at Ichikawa City Zoo.
Punch-kun, affectionately known as Punch, was born on July 26, 2025, at Ichikawa City Zoo near Tokyo — and from the very beginning, his journey was far from easy.
Shortly after his birth, his mother rejected him, leaving keepers to provide constant care.
For Japanese macaques — also known as snow monkeys — the maternal bond is especially important. The species is known for deep emotional dependence on mothers, often clinging to them for months while learning to climb, forage, and socialize. Even after gaining independence, young macaques may remain emotionally attached for years, according to the Asia for Animals Coalition (AFA).
Without that early bond, Punch’s path has been uniquely difficult.
Punch’s stuffy
To comfort him, zoo staff introduced soft enrichment items into his space. Almost immediately, Punch became strongly attached to a plush orangutan from IKEA — he sleeps with it, eats with it, and plays with it. Photos and videos of the baby macaque cuddling the stuffed animal quickly went viral, drawing millions of views and bringing large crowds to the zoo.
But the attention also raised concerns.
Social correction
In mid-February, a video circulated online showing Punch being dragged by an adult monkey inside his habitat. Afterward, the little guy ran to his stuffed monkey for comfort, tightly cuddling it before dragging it to a place where he felt safe.
The footage alarmed many fans, with some interpreting the interaction as bullying.
However, the zoo said it was something different.
“To integrate Punch into other Japanese monkey troops, we anticipated that this kind of challenge may arise,” the zoo said, according to People. Caretakers explained that what may appear harsh to human viewers can be part of normal social correction within a macaque troop. They also emphasized Punch’s resilience during the process.
“While Punch is being scolded, he shows resilience and mental strength,” the zoo said. “When observing these disciplinary behaviors… we ask you to support Punch’s effort rather than feel sorry for him.”
‘Playing with the other baby monkeys’
In a Feb. 23 update shared on X, Ichikawa City Zoo reported encouraging progress. Staff observed Punch — who had bonded with an older macaque — playing with other baby monkeys and eating independently without relying on a keeper.
“From what I could see, there were no scenes of him being scolded, and he was seen playing with the other baby monkeys. During mealtime, he came down from the keeper’s foot on his own and began eating by himself,” the zoo wrote about the adorable primate who clings to the keeper when he enters the enclosure. “He continues to do well!”
Punch’s hair loss
Officials also responded to broader concerns about the “monkey mountain” habitat and overall welfare conditions.
“Animal welfare is the top priority in the current environment, and we are doing our best to improve the monkeys’ living conditions,” animal park officials said, adding that making a “radical change” “may lead to Punch being bullied.”
“For this reason, we want to prioritize Punch becoming a member of the troop safely while improving the monkeys’ health conditions as much as possible,” the spokesperson said.
Keepers also explained that four indoor rooms remain available behind the scenes, providing private spaces away from visitors. Punch uses these areas when he needs time alone. Staff also highlighted enrichment efforts, including trees that have become popular climbing and play structures for the younger monkeys.
Regarding concerns about Punch’s apparent hair loss, the zoo explained that during winter months, macaques “spend more time grooming, which can lead to increased alopecia.”
Punch ‘confidently playing’
On Feb. 26, the zoo shared a major milestone showing how much Punch is growing. The once-clingy infant, rarely seen without his beloved stuffed orangutan, was now walking upright and confidently playing with other young monkeys on his own.
“He played with the other young monkeys without using his stuffed toy,” the zoo stated in a Feb. 26 post. Zookeepers also addressed questions after some viewers wondered whether Punch’s left arm was injured: “We received concerned comments about his left arm, such as ‘Is he injured?’ But just to be sure, we had the vet check him, and there is no abnormality — he is spending his time energetically as usual.”
IKEA cashes in
As Punch continues adjusting to life within the troop, supporters around the world are still following his journey closely — and their enthusiasm has spread beyond the zoo.
Following his surge in popularity, IKEA Japan donated dozens of stuffed animals to Ichikawa City Zoo, including its Djungelskog orangutan — the same plush companion Punch is famous for cuddling.
Fans around the world quickly rushed to buy their own, and by Feb. 25, the toy was sold out on IKEA’s website and is now selling for up to $150 on eBay.
For a baby monkey who began life without his mother, Punch has not only found his place among his primate peers — he has also won over the internet, one cuddle at a time.
Hopefully Punch continues bonding with his troop so he can live a long and happy life! Please share what you think about this sweet little monkey and share this story with your friends so they can also share their thoughts!
