Abandoned baby monkey adopts orangutan plush toy as ‘surrogate mother’
The story is not only a marvel of the animal kingdom but also a poignant reminder of the occasionally harsh realities of nature.
ICHIKAWA – A six-month-old baby monkey named Punch has captured hearts across the globe after being abandoned by his mother and finding a ‘substitute’ in the comforting embrace of an orangutan plush toy.
The story is not only a marvel of the animal kingdom but also a poignant reminder of the occasionally harsh realities of nature.
Punch was born on July 26, 2025 at Ichikawa City Zoo in Tokyo, weighing a mere 500 grams.
His mother, reportedly exhausted by the intensity of her first summer birth, was unable to provide the necessary care for her offspring.
Recognising that the infant was in grave danger, zookeepers Kosuke Shikano and Shumpei Miyakoshi stepped in to raise him.
To simulate maternal affection, the keepers provided him with various towels and soft toys.
Ultimately, Punch chose a large orangutan plush toy as his preferred source of comfort.
In a viral video that has moved audiences worldwide, the baby monkey is seen sucking his thumb while clinging tightly to the toy, lowering his head as if seeking the warmth of a mother who is no longer there.
The plush toy has since become a ‘surrogate mother’, providing Punch with daily emotional security.
“Monkeys naturally cling to their mothers from birth for comfort and to build strength. This orangutan plush toy gives him a sense of safety, as if his mother were by his side,” Shikano explained.
Since January, Punch has been gradually introduced to a small group of other monkeys at the zoo.
Although he has begun to interact with his peers, Punch refuses to let go of his orangutan companion, demonstrating a powerful emotional bond and proving that affection can manifest in many forms.
The story has resonated deeply with online communities in Japan and internationally.
Under the hashtag #HangInTherePunch, the monkey has become a symbol of resilience and hope.
“Even when scolded by other monkeys, Punch recovers quickly. He is learning every day how to navigate life within the group while still holding onto his plush toy. It is a moving sight for anyone who witnesses it,” Shikano added.
According to Ichikawa City Zoo, Punch’s journey has become a major attraction for visitors, serving as a reminder that love and resilience can flourish even in the most challenging circumstances. — AGENCY
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