Video Baby monkey carries faithful stuffed companion everywhere he goes, attracting crowds at zoo
Born in July and left shortly thereafter, Punch-kun now regards a plush orangutan as the maternal figure he lacked. (Courtesy @20230605x_x via Storyful)
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Lengthy queues are developing in front of a small Japanese zoo, all because of a miniature monkey and the cuddly toy it refuses to relinquish.
Visitors have been flocking to Ichikawa City Zoo after images of a baby macaque clutching a sizable stuffed orangutan circulated widely on social media.
The monkey, named Punch-kun, takes the toy everywhere: pulling it across his habitat, eating next to it, and snuggling up to it when he sleeps.
In a statement released on X on Feb. 15, zoo representatives mentioned that personnel were taken aback by the increase in visitors.
Punch-kun the macaque is observed transporting his orangutan toy after becoming an internet sensation at the Ichikawa City Zoo. (@20230605x_x via Storyful)
“The entire staff was surprised by this unexpected influx, something we have never witnessed before,” the zoo stated, apologizing for delays at the entrance due to the escalating crowds.
However, behind the widely shared moment lies a poignant narrative. As per a report from News.au, along with information from the Zoo’s X page, Punch was born in July 2025 but was abandoned by his mother soon after.
Zoo personnel intervened to raise him by hand, vigilantly watching his progress and gradually integrating him with other macaques.
Punch-kun sits hesitantly at the border of his habitat, safeguarding his cherished stuffed orangutan in this video recorded by a visitor at the Ichikawa City Zoo. (@20230605x_x via Storyful)
When he was eventually transitioned into the group permanently, staff noticed his difficulties in adjusting. Like many primates, infant macaques instinctively hold onto their mothers from the moment of birth. Absent that connection, Punch displayed indicators of unease and isolation.
Caregivers provided him with the large stuffed orangutan as a form of solace, and he has not parted with it since. The six-month-old now regards the plush toy as an adoptive mother, keeping it nearby as he experiences life inside the enclosure.
Pictures shared by the zoo rapidly gained traction online, attracting visitors from all over Japan hoping to see him in person.
Punch tows his trusted friend around his habitat in a video recorded by a spectator. (@20230605x_x via Storyful)
“It’s endearing to witness the little monkey dragging the stuffed animal around, yet it evokes sadness concurrently,” one observer posted on X.
Another visitor commented that Punch proudly presented his toy while running and resting during their visit. Others voiced worry about his emotional state while commending zoo personnel for their assistance.
“I sincerely hope Punch integrates well,” one commenter wrote. “Observing the staff assisting him through his challenges showcases their profound dedication.”
In a separate announcement, the zoo stated that Punch is now “progressively enhancing his interactions” with the other monkeys.
He is being groomed, engaging in play, establishing boundaries, and even receiving reprimands, all of which are typical elements of social development for young macaques.
Presently, the stuffed orangutan remains close. As crowds congregate outside his habitat, the miniature monkey can still be seen clutching the sole source of comfort he knows, a plush substitute for the mother who abandoned him.