Fans flock to Japan zoo to see viral baby monkey Punch
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Visitors flocked to Ichikawa City Zoo on Friday (Feb 20) to see Punch, the baby macaque who captured hearts after being abandon by his mother.
Photo: AFP
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Six-month-old Punch became an internet sensation after footage of him clinging forlornly to zookeepers and dragging around a stuffed orangutan toy was widely shared on X.
Photo: Reuters
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Zookeepers believe the toy's monkey-like shape made it easy and familiar for Punch to cling to and say he chose the toy himself.
Photo: AFP
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Online, sympathy for Punch exploded. Supporters began sharing updates using the hashtag #HangInTherePunch.
Photo: Reuters
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Punch is now gradually joining his troop, despite occasional scoldings from older monkeys. His resilience has drawn even more fans.
Photo: Reuters
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“He's so cute, so I had to come see him,” said one fan. Another added: “It makes me a little sad he's growing so fast, but I'm relieved to see he's making friends."
Photo: Reuters