A seven-month-old Japanese macaque has drawn international attention after forming an unusual bond with a stuffed orangutan toy after being rejected by its mother.
The baby monkey, named Punch, lives at Ichikawa City Zoo near Ichikawa, Japan. Zookeepers say the animal was rejected shortly after birth, possibly due to extreme summer heat, which they said may have affected the mother’s behaviour at the time.
In the absence of maternal care, Punch began clinging to a plush orangutan toy. The toy became both a source of comfort and something the young macaque now carries around the enclosure.
The attachment attracted widespread attention after footage showed an adult monkey handling Punch roughly, prompting concern on social media, where some viewers described the behaviour as “bullying”.
In the video, the larger monkey was seen dragging Punch across the ground before the youngster broke free and returned to its toy.
Visitors have travelled to the zoo after videos of Punch went viral online, using the hashtag #HangInTherePunch to show support.
In the wild, infant Japanese macaques depend on their mothers for warmth, protection and physical development, clinging to them during the first months of life.
Zookeepers say the stuffed toy also helped Punch develop strength and adjust gradually before rejoining the troop.
The team added that Punch is slowly adapting to group life, picking up social cues through interaction with other monkeys. He is occasionally corrected by older monkeys during play, but there have been no signs of serious aggression.
Although the plush companion remains by his side, staff believe he will naturally let go of it as he becomes more independent.
The zoo has urged the public to remain supportive as the young macaque continues to socialise, saying his behaviour shows resilience despite a difficult start to life.
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