Here’s the heartbreaking reason why Punch, the viral baby monkey, carries stuffed animal

The story of Punch, the baby macaque, has captivated the world.

Punch-kun, as he is affectionately known, was reportedly born in July 2025 but was abandoned by his mother shortly after birth.

Caretakers at Ichikawa City Zoo in Japan stepped in to rescue and hand-raise him, closely monitoring his growth while gradually introducing him to other macaques.

However, when caretakers moved him into an enclosure with other monkeys, they noticed he was struggling to integrate into the group.

It’s common for monkeys to cling to their mothers from birth – so to help combat his anxiety and assist with his loneliness, caretakers gave him an oversized stuffed orangutan that he’s now established a strong bond with, taking it everywhere he goes.

According to local reports, he treats it like the mother he never had; sleeping with it, eating with it and playing with it.

The six-month-old’s attachment to the stuffed animal reportedly not only surprised staff at the zoo but has captured the hearts of people across Japan and the world.

Images of Punch with the toy have since gone viral, melting hearts online.

Huge lines have also formed at the zoo as locals and tourists alike swarm to get a glimpse of Punch, expressing their well-wishes and cheering him on.

“We would like to express our sincere gratitude to everyone who visited us today,” the zoo said in a statement on February 15.

“All of our staff were surprised by the unexpected turnout, something we have never experienced before.

“We would like to apologize for the delay in getting you through the gate. We will continue to prepare for next week’s three-day weekend so that you can enjoy your visit in comfort.”

Many have taken to social media to share their experiences visiting Punch at the zoo.

“I went to see Punch. ️He showed off his cute little toy, running and lying around,” one person wrote on X.

“I went to see Punch-kun, but the other animals were also so close and cute, it was a lot of fun. I’m sure the shop staff were really tired from the crowds. I’m rooting for you.”

Another wrote: “We visited the zoo today! There wasn’t much of a line when we entered, but there was a huge line when we left. People were there to see Punch! Indeed, the monkey mountain was packed even in the morning. The kids seemed to love the park area! We hope to visit again soon!”

One person said while “cute,” it’s also “very sad.”

“It is cute to see the little monkey dragging the stuffed animal around but it is very sad at the same time.”

Others expressed their concerns for Punch-kun’s well-being.

“I really hope Punch finds his place. Zoos do vital work for animal welfare, and seeing the staff support Punch through his struggles shows their deep commitment. It’s a heartwarming effort,” one person commented on the zoo’s X statement.

“It’s a wonderful zoo, with a laid-back atmosphere and a close connection to the animals. I’m worried that the sudden surge in activity might tire out the other animals, even if it’s only temporary. Please put the animals first (though I’m sure the staff are most concerned about this,” wrote another.

In a separate post, the zoo said Punch is “gradually deepening his interactions with the other monkeys in his group”.

“He has a variety of experiences every day, such as being groomed, messing around with them, and being scolded, and he is learning every day how to live in a group as a monkey!”