The Ichikawa City Zoo near Tokyo reports a surge in visitor numbers this month. More than 100 people visited the monkey enclosure on Friday. They came to observe a Japanese macaque named Punch. This primate became a sensation on the platform X recently. Users share videos of Punch with the hashtag #HangInTherePunch.
The public interest follows reports of the macaque’s history at the facility. Punch arrived at the zoo on 26 July 2025. The infant weighed 500 grams at the time of birth. His mother showed no interest in his care shortly after the delivery. Zookeepers attributed this behaviour to the extreme heat and her lack of experience.
Punch with his stuffed orangutan
Birth and Intervention at Ichikawa City Zoo
Zookeepers Kosuke Shikano and Shumpei Miyakoshi intervened to save the infant. They began a programme of hand-rearing to ensure his survival. The staff provided milk via bottles and monitored his health daily. Punch now weighs 2 kilograms as of February 2026. This weight gain indicates successful growth during his first seven months.
Infant macaques require physical contact to build muscle and feel security. The keepers initially tried using towels and various dolls for comfort. Punch eventually chose a plush orangutan from the retailer IKEA. This toy features long hair and limbs that the macaque can grasp easily. He carries this object during most of his daily activities.
Punch with zookeeper Kosuke Shikano
The Role of the Surrogate Object
The plush toy serves as a substitute for a maternal figure. Punch clings to the object while he sleeps in his enclosure. He also uses the toy for stability during his movements. Experts compare this behaviour to attachment theories involving transitional objects. The toy provides a sense of safety during periods of stress.
The zookeepers named the toy “Oran-mama” following suggestions from the public. Punch often drags the item across the ground as he explores. He retreats to the plushie when he feels nervous around others. This bond has captured the attention of millions of viewers worldwide. The zoo continues to document these interactions for research and public updates.
Punch often drags his orangutan toy, “Oran-mama”
Social Media Statistics and Global Impact
Footage of Punch has reached a global audience via social media platforms.
- The hashtag #HangInTherePunch trended in several countries this week.
- Videos on TikTok and X have gained millions of views.
- IKEA Japan donated additional plushies to the zoo recently.
- Visitor numbers at the zoo have reached unprecedented levels.
Online communities share fan art and messages of support for the macaque. Some users compare his popularity to that of other famous animals like Moo Deng. The zoo uses its official account to provide regular updates on its progress. This digital presence helps the facility fund its conservation and care programmes. Public interest remains high as Punch enters a new developmental stage.
Abandoned baby monkey at Japan zoo finds his only comfort in a stuffed orangutan toy he carries EVERYWHERE.
The way he hugs it tight… 💔 #HangInTherePunch #PunchTheMonkey— Awais Latif (@AwaislatifCh) February 20, 2026
Integration Into the Macaque Troop
The staff began introducing Punch to the main troop in January 2026. This group consists of approximately 60 macaques on the “monkey mountain”. The integration process involves gradual exposure to the social hierarchy of the troop. Punch initially faced challenges during these social interactions. Older monkeys sometimes scolded or ignored the young macaque.
Zookeepers monitor these sessions to ensure the safety of the infant. They released a statement regarding the social dynamics of the troop. The announcement stated, “While Punch is scolded, he shows mental strength and resilience.” This process allows Punch to learn the rules of his species. He still carries his plush toy during these sessions for reassurance.
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Recent Social Breakthroughs
The zoo reported a significant milestone in Punch’s social development this week. An adult macaque named Onsing approached Punch for a physical interaction. Onsing provided a hug and began grooming the infant. Grooming represents a vital form of social currency among primates. This act signals acceptance and trust within the group structure.
Punch also started playing with other young members of the troop. He pokes his peers and engages in climbing activities. These behaviours show an increase in his confidence and social skills. He relies on his plush toy less frequently during daylight hours now. The staff observe these changes with optimism for his future.
Today, Punch-kun received a lot of care. One monkey spent time with him and groomed him, and he even made a new friend. I’m really happy to see that.
Stay strong, little Punch! pic.twitter.com/sE9afi7RqX
— Weather Monitor (@WeatherMonitors) February 20, 2026
Future Outlook for Punch
The zoo aims for the full integration of Punch into the troop. This goal requires the macaque to form permanent bonds with his peers. Zookeeper Shikano believes Punch will eventually abandon his plush toy. The transition to social independence marks a critical point in primate development. Staff will continue to provide supplemental feeding during this period.
The story of Punch highlights the complexities of animal husbandry in zoos. It demonstrates the importance of emotional support for social species. The public continues to follow his journey with interest. Punch remains a symbol of resilience for his many supporters. His progress provides data on the socialisation of hand-reared macaques.
