The baby macaque named Punch at Ichikawa City Zoo has gained worldwide attention after videos showed him being rejected by his mother and finding comfort in a stuffed animal. The monkey’s social isolation has sparked concern online, though zoo staff say such behavior can be part of normal development for young macaques.
Experts believe Punch is under close observation to prevent physical harm and help him remain in the group, as explained by Emily Bethell. If the monkey faces continued rejection, he may eventually be moved to another group to form new social bonds. Since male Japanese macaques often migrate from their birth group when mature, there is hope he could develop new social relationships later.