Abandoned at birth, Punch the macaque finds global love as crowds flock to Tokyo zoo

Among the visitors was a Pakistan national named Izaz, who shared videos from the zoo on February 22 showing a massive crowd gathered eagerly to see the infant macaque, lovingly called Punch — or Panchi-kun in Japanese.

“People out there for PUNCH,” Izaz wrote on Instagram, describing the turnout as “insane”.

Crowd swelled at the zoo for Punch. Photo: Screen-grab/izazzali Instagram video

In subsequent clips, he documented Punch’s movements, noting that the young macaque appeared healthy and had spent time near the troop.

However, one video shows Punch shying away from the crowd, tightly clutching an orangutan stuffed toy — his constant companion and emotional support.

A heartbreaking beginning

Punch was abandoned by his mother shortly after his birth in July last year at the zoo in Tokyo, Japan’s capital. For primates, maternal bonding in early life is essential for emotional development, social learning and survival. Without that bond, infants often struggle to integrate socially.

Deprived of maternal care, Punch instinctively sought comfort among adult macaques in the enclosure. But instead of acceptance, he faced repeated rejection. Adult monkeys pushed him away and, at times, even attacked him, leaving the infant isolated.

Finding comfort in a stuffed toy

With no maternal figure or social acceptance, Punch turned to an unlikely source of comfort — an orangutan stuffed toy provided by zoo keepers. The toy soon became his surrogate companion.

He sleeps with it, clutches it tightly and carries it wherever he goes, as though holding on to the warmth and security he was denied at birth.

Raised largely by zoo caretakers, Punch has also developed a strong emotional bond with his human keepers. Videos show him clinging tightly to them during feeding time, seeking reassurance and safety.

A story that touched the world

One particularly emotional viral video shows Punch running away in fear while clutching his stuffed toy after being kicked by adult macaques when he tried to approach them.

Despite repeated rejection, Punch continues to seek connection — a poignant reminder of the deep social and emotional needs shared by primates.

His story has resonated with millions worldwide. Social media platforms have been flooded with messages of support, with users rallying behind the young macaque and creating hashtags such as #HangInTherePunch, expressing hope that he will eventually find acceptance and companionship.

As crowds continue to gather at the zoo, Punch’s journey from abandonment to global affection stands as both a heartbreaking and inspiring testament to resilience and the universal need for love and belonging.