A Lonely Baby Monkey Wins Hearts, and Even a Few Friends

NYT Homepage

by Remy Tumin

February 19, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

A 7-month-old macaque named Punch has captured hearts worldwide after being abandoned by his mother at Ichikawa City Zoo near Tokyo. Struggling to socialize with other monkeys, Punch found comfort in a stuffed orangutan and the zookeepers who cared for him. His story went viral online, with hashtags like #HangInTherePunch gaining traction and earning him global attention. Despite initial challenges, Punch has started to gain confidence, with videos showing him slowly integrating into his troop. Born in July at the zoo, Punch’s mother likely abandoned him due to a difficult labor during a heatwave. After being nursed by zoo staff, he was reintroduced to the monkey enclosure in January but faced difficulty fitting in. Videos revealed Punch being swatted away by adult monkeys when attempting to interact, often leaving him isolated. However, his adorable appearance and resilience won over fans, who began sharing posts of his journey online. The outpouring of support for Punch has transformed him into an internet sensation, with thousands visiting the zoo to see him. Last weekend alone, visitor numbers doubled compared to the previous year, highlighting the impact of social media on even small-town zoos. While Punch’s progress is still slow, the increased attention has brought joy to many during challenging times. Punch’s story matters because it highlights the power of social media in amplifying even the smallest tales of resilience and hope. His journey not only sheds light on animal welfare but also reminds us of the universal desire for connection and support, whether among humans or animals. As Punch continues to gain confidence, his story serves as a heartwarming reminder of the impact one little monkey can have on the world.

Verticals

newsgeneral

Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/19/2026