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OffbeatJapan

Abandoned baby monkey finds new friend

Karin Helmstaedt
February 21, 2026

Punch, a six-month-old Japanese macaque, was left alone by his mother. The baby monkey is now finding comfort with a new companion, a stuffed toy. The pair has drawn attention online and among zoo visitors.

https://p.dw.com/p/59AGX

Punch, a six‑month‑old Japanese macaque near Tokyo, has become a zoo sensation after bonding with a plush orangutan. Abandoned during a heatwave, he needed something to cling to for strength and comfort. Keepers tested towels and toys before finding the stuffed orangutan that helped soothe him and support his reintegration into the troop. Visitors now flock to see the unlikely duo as Punch gains confidence.