Overview
- Ichikawa Zoo says the hand‑reared Japanese macaque remains under staff care as he slowly socializes with his group.
- A Feb. 20 video showed an adult named Onsing embracing Punch, cited by coverage as an early sign of acceptance.
- After concerns over rough interactions, the zoo stated reprimands from other macaques are normal and no serious attacks occurred.
- IKEA’s ‘Djungelskog’ orangutan plush, used as Punch’s comfort object, has sold out in places and is listed as a best seller, with IKEA Japan donating replacements.
- The viral attention has drawn heavy footfall to the Chiba‑area zoo, with about 8,000 visitors reported in a single weekend—roughly double typical attendance.