Orphaned Baby Macaque Punch-kun Goes Viral at Japanese Zoo

A six-month-old Japanese macaque named Punch-kun has captured hearts worldwide after videos and photos of him carrying a large stuffed orangutan toy everywhere went viral on social media. The baby monkey, abandoned by his mother shortly after birth, treats the plush as a surrogate parent, providing comfort as he adjusts to life with other primates at Ichikawa City Zoo in Chiba Prefecture, near Tokyo.

Punch was born in July 2025 but rejected by his mother days later, a behavior sometimes seen in macaques under stress or due to health issues. In the wild, such rejection often proves fatal for infants. Zoo staff intervened immediately, hand-rearing and bottle-feeding Punch to ensure his survival. As he grew, keepers noticed signs of anxiety and loneliness typical in orphaned primates who lack maternal bonding and physical contact.

To help ease his distress, caretakers introduced soft blankets and toys around one week old. Punch quickly formed a strong attachment to an oversized orange plush orangutan, reportedly purchased from IKEA. He clings to it while sleeping, carries it on his back like a real infant macaque would ride with its mother, presses his face into it when scared and rarely lets it out of reach. Zoo officials have dubbed the toy his “plushie mom” or surrogate mother.

“The stuffed animal was a surrogate mother,” zoo representative Mr. Shikano told media outlets. Staff were surprised by the depth of the bond but recognized it as a healthy coping mechanism during his hand-rearing phase.

Videos shared on platforms like Instagram, X (formerly Twitter) and YouTube show Punch dragging the toy through his enclosure, snuggling with it during naps and even bringing it along as he explores. One clip depicts him running back to the plush when overwhelmed, melting viewers with its poignant display of need for security.

The footage exploded online in mid-February 2026, amassing millions of views and shares. Comments flooded in with empathy: “This broke my heart but also healed it,” one user posted. Others called Punch “the bravest little guy” and rooted for his recovery. The story drew comparisons to other viral animal tales of resilience and companionship.

By February 15, the zoo reported unprecedented crowds, with long lines forming at entrance gates. Officials issued an apology for delays, thanking visitors while urging patience. “We would like to express our sincere gratitude to everyone who visited us today,” the zoo posted on X.

Punch’s integration into the troop has progressed gradually. Introduced to other macaques in mid-January, he has begun deeper interactions, though challenges remain. Some troop members have been less welcoming, leading to occasional retreats to his toy for reassurance. Recent updates from the zoo indicate steady improvement: “Punch is gradually deepening his interactions with the troop of monkeys,” a February 6 post noted. He still carries the plush but ventures farther while maintaining it nearby.

Zoo staff monitor his development closely, providing enrichment and socialization opportunities. Japanese macaques typically form strong social bonds early, so Punch’s progress marks a positive step toward full group membership.

The viral phenomenon has spotlighted animal welfare issues, with some advocates questioning zoo environments. PETA and others criticized the “concrete pit” setting, arguing sanctuaries offer better natural space and bonds. The zoo emphasizes its conservation and educational role, with Punch’s story highlighting hand-rearing successes in captive care.

Punch’s IKEA orangutan has sparked interest in similar toys, with online searches surging and some retailers noting stock interest. Social media users jokingly suggested “buy it before it sells out,” turning the plush into an unexpected symbol of comfort.

As Punch continues growing—now about seven months old—his story resonates as one of adaptation and unexpected friendship. Zoo visitors flock not just for the cute factor but to witness a tiny survivor finding solace amid hardship.

Ichikawa City Zoo, a smaller facility focused on local wildlife and education, has seen a welcome boost in attendance. Officials hope the attention raises awareness about primate care and the emotional needs of young animals.

For now, Punch-kun remains a beacon of cuteness and resilience, his stuffed companion a touching reminder that even in loneliness, comfort can come from the simplest sources.