A zoo has told fans to stop feeling sorry for Punch the monkey, insisting his troop’s rough “discipline” is just a natural lesson in primate manners
Heartbreaking footage of a lonely baby monkey clutching a stuffed toy went viral across the globe but now the zoo has a firm message for worried fans.
Punch the macaque became an internet sensation after being filmed wandering alone while clutching a tatty orange toy for dear life.
The tiny primate was seen being chased and harassed by a rowdy troop of Japanese macaques in a series of videos that sparked international outrage.
But bosses at Ichikawa City Zoological and Botanical Gardens have hit back at concerned fans by insisting the pint-sized primate isn’t being bullied. They claim he is simply being taught how to behave in a tough society.
Despite the tear-jerking videos, zoo officials say the “harassment” is actually a vital lesson in monkey manners.
In a fiery statement, the zoo said: “Although Punch has been scolded many times by other monkeys, no single monkey has shown serious aggression toward him.
“When you observe these disciplinary behaviours from other troop members toward Punch when he tries to communicate with them, we would like you to support Punch’s effort rather than feel sorry for him.”
The zoo slapped down claims of cruelty and explained that Japanese macaques follow a strict hierarchical society. Dominant individuals show “disciplining actions” toward their subordinates and the zoo insists these behaviours differ from human “abuses.”
Punch had a rough start to life after his mother abandoned him following his birth. Heroic keepers saved him by giving him a stuffed orangutan to cling to so he could build up the muscle strength he needed to survive.
Zookeeper Kosuke Kano previously said: “Helping Punch learn the rules of monkey society and being accepted as a member is our most important task.”
And it seems the tough love is working because Punch is spending more time away from his toy. He has even been spotted climbing on the backs of other monkeys and getting the occasional hug.
The zoo confirmed: “The number of monkeys who look after or play with Punch is also increasing. Because of this, the time Punch spends away from his stuffed toy has increased.”
However, the zoo did admit things got a bit too heated. On March 8, they were forced to drag a few high-ranking bullies out of the enclosure after they demonstrated aggression more frequently.
But for those demanding Punch be moved to his own private VIP suite, the zoo had a firm “no.”
Officials said: “Punch has become accustomed to living in this troop, so separating him now would create the risk that he would never be able to return to the group and would have to continue living that way for the rest of his life.”
With three veterinarians checking him daily, the zoo says Punch is in good health and definitely isn’t in danger.
Director Shigekazu Mizushina added that while Punch still snuggles his toy at night, the goal is for him to eventually ditch the plushie for a group huddle with his new friends.
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