ICHIKAWA, Japan — A seven-month-old Japanese macaque named Punch-kun has become a global sensation, drawing massive crowds to the Ichikawa City Zoo after heart-wrenching videos of the orphaned primate went viral on social media. As of February 21, 2026, zoo officials are reassuring the public about the infant’s safety following concerns over his treatment by the troop.
The Story of Punch and His Plushie
Punch was abandoned by his mother shortly after his birth in July 2025. To provide emotional support and mimic the physical contact essential for primate development, zookeepers provided him with a large stuffed orangutan. The sight of the tiny macaque clutching his “plushie mom” while navigating the enclosure has resonated with millions of viewers worldwide, sparking a wave of “Punch-mania.”
On Friday, February 20, 2026, dozens of fans flocked to the zoo outside Tokyo to catch a glimpse of the resilient monkey. The “Punch” phenomenon has reached such heights that international figures and media outlets like the New York Times and BBC have covered his journey from a lonely outcast to a social media icon.
Zoo Responds to “Bullying” Concerns
The viral fame took a concerned turn this week when footage surfaced showing Punch being dragged and swatted by older members of the macaque troop. The video prompted an outpouring of sympathy and even outrage from netizens who feared the baby was being bullied.
In an official statement released within the last 24 hours, Ichikawa City Zoo assured the public that Punch is safe and healthy. Experts explained that the behaviors seen in the video—while appearing harsh to human eyes—are a natural part of “social learning” for Japanese macaques.
- Social Integration: The zoo noted that Punch is learning to navigate the complex hierarchy of the troop.
- Natural Discipline: Being “scolded” or moved by older monkeys helps infants learn boundaries and social cues.
- Progress: Despite the rough-and-tumble interactions, Punch has begun to form alliances and is successfully integrating into the group.
Understanding the Japanese Macaque
Also known as “Snow Monkeys,” Japanese macaques (Macaca fuscata) are highly intelligent primates endemic to Japan. They are famous for their complex social structures and unique behaviors, such as bathing in hot springs and washing food. In the wild, these monkeys form strong matrilineal bonds, which explains why Punch’s initial abandonment was so physically and emotionally taxing for the infant.
While Punch still finds comfort in his stuffed orangutan, zookeepers report he is spending increasing amounts of time interacting with his own kind. “Punch has been scolded many times and has learned how to socialize,” the zoo stated, confirming that the resilient macaque is well on his way to becoming a full member of the Ichikawa troop.