Punch The Monkey: Abandoned Baby Macaque Clings to Plush, Drawing Crowds

An abandoned 6-month-old Japanese macaque, known to many online as punch the monkey, has become a worldwide sensation after zookeepers shared images and updates about his attachment to a small orangutan plush. The attention has translated into more visitors for the zoo and a viral hashtag that has amplified public interest.

Punch The Monkey’s comfort toy

Born July 2025 and called Panchi-kun in Japanese (Punch in English), the baby macaque was left by his mother and has been in the care of zookeepers at the Ichikawa City Zoo. What captured public attention was Punch’s persistent carrying and cuddling of a small stuffed orangutan, which staff say he uses for comfort while he acclimates to his surroundings.

Viral attention and public reaction

Videos and posts showing the young macaque with his plush circulated on social media, with many users sharing clips of him being comforted by the toy or appearing isolated while the plush sat beside him. The hashtag #HangInTherePunch spread alongside those posts. A global furniture retailer also shared a photo of the same orangutan plush and labeled it a comfort item for Punch, a move that further increased visibility.

As the story spread, the zoo posted translated updates noting both concern and encouraging signs from staff. Early clips showed instances of the baby being singled out and scolded by other macaques, while later footage included moments where another monkey groomed him, suggesting gradual acceptance.

Progress with the troop and what’s next

By Feb. 6 (ET), updates from the zoo said Punch had gradually made connections and interactions with the troop. A later update on Feb. 12 (ET) said interactions had increased, though there were still times when he was scolded while learning group rules. The zoo also reported a rise in visitor numbers and shared a photo showing a long line at the entrance alongside an image of Punch with his stuffed toy.

If Punch continues to receive grooming and repeated positive interactions from other macaques, he may keep integrating more fully into the group. Zoo staff are continuing to monitor his behavior and social responses as he learns the troop’s social norms.

Key takeaways

• Abandoned 6-month-old macaque Panchi-kun (Punch) uses an orangutan plush for comfort.
• Social posts and the hashtag #HangInTherePunch drove increased public interest and zoo attendance.
• Zoo updates on Feb. 6 (ET) and Feb. 12 (ET) documented gradual social integration with occasional scolding while learning group rules.