Viral Monkey: Meet Punch, Japan’s Newest Macaque Star

The Ichikawa City Zoological and Botanical Gardens in Chiba, Japan, addressed concerns this week following the viral spread of a video appearing to demonstrate a young macaque monkey, nicknamed “Punch,” being dragged across the ground by another primate. The incident, captured in a video that has since been deleted, prompted a wave of online concern for the seven-month-old monkey, who was abandoned by his mother shortly after birth.

Responding to the outcry, the zoo released a statement on X, first in Japanese and then translated to English, explaining the interaction. According to zoo keepers, Punch had approached another baby monkey in an attempt to socialize, but was rebuffed. An adult monkey, believed to be the other baby’s mother, then intervened, pulling Punch away from the interaction.

While the behavior appeared harsh to many viewers, the zoo clarified that This represents a typical form of socialization and boundary-setting among macaques. “She probably felt that her baby was annoyed by Punch and got upset,” the zoo stated, characterizing the incident as discipline rather than aggression. The explanation aimed to dispel accusations of abuse and negligence leveled against the zoo by concerned social media users.

The attention surrounding Punch extends beyond the recent incident. The monkey gained initial popularity for his habit of carrying a stuffed animal, identified as a plushie from IKEA, for comfort. The increased visibility has led to a surge in demand for the toy, with some fearing it may sell out.

The incident also highlighted a case of mistaken identity, as the Ishikawa Zoo in Nomi, western Japan, received numerous inquiries regarding Punch. The Ishikawa Zoo issued a statement on Saturday, February 21, clarifying that Punch resides at the Ichikawa City Zoological and Botanical Gardens, not their facility.