Overview
- The Ichikawa City Zoo said rough interactions seen in videos reflect species-typical disciplining within Japanese macaque hierarchies, not targeted bullying.
- The statement, issued March 10, followed online concern after clips showed Punch being chased and one incident where an adult dragged him.
- Keepers report Punch spends most of the day peacefully, more troop members are grooming or playing with him, and he is relying less on the IKEA orangutan plush.
- A few high‑ranking adults that showed frequent aggression were temporarily removed on March 8 for monitoring, and staff report no attacks threatening Punch’s survival.
- Zoo officials say separating Punch now could jeopardize long‑term socialization, rejecting profit motives, while PETA condemns the case as evidence of zoo cruelty.