A tiny orphaned monkey who stole hearts around the world is doing better than many people think.
Punch, a 7-month-old Japanese macaque living at the Ichikawa City Zoological and Botanical Garden in Japan, recently sparked concern online after a video showed another monkey dragging him across the habitat. Many viewers worried the little primate — already famous for cuddling a stuffed orangutan toy — was being bullied by the troop.
The monkey troop hasn’t accepted poor little Punch. Adult males are trying to kill him. pic.twitter.com/2jiBnTOToT
— Ian Miles Cheong (@ianmiles) February 19, 2026
But zoo officials say the story is a lot sweeter and more hopeful than it looks.
According to caretakers, macaques live in a strict social hierarchy where older or dominant monkeys sometimes “discipline” younger ones who get a little too curious or push boundaries. While the behavior might look harsh to humans, experts say it’s a normal part of how young monkeys learn to fit into their troop.
And despite the viral video, Punch is actually spending most of his days peacefully exploring and interacting with the other monkeys.
Zoo staff shared that more and more members of the troop are beginning to play with him and look after him — a promising sign that the little orphan is slowly being accepted.
They also took extra precautions after the online attention. A few monkeys that showed more aggressive behavior were temporarily removed from the habitat on March 8 to give Punch a calmer environment while he continues adjusting.
The zoo’s veterinary team checks on Punch every day and says there are no signs that he has been seriously hurt.
While some fans suggested separating Punch from the group to keep him safe, caretakers say that could actually make things worse. If the young macaque grows up away from the troop, he might never be able to return — leaving him alone for the rest of his life.
Instead, zookeepers believe learning to live within the group is the best chance for Punch to thrive.
Punch’s story has already captured hearts worldwide. After he was abandoned by his mother shortly after birth in July 2025, zoo staff hand-raised the tiny macaque and gave him a stuffed orangutan toy for comfort.
The plush companion quickly became his best friend — and adorable videos of Punch hugging the toy helped turn the little monkey into a viral sensation.
Now, as Punch grows more confident and begins spending more time playing with the other monkeys instead of clinging to his stuffed buddy, caretakers say it’s a sign that he’s finally starting to feel at home.
And fans everywhere are rooting for the tiny survivor as he learns how to be part of the troop.