Overview
- Ichikawa Zoo reports 2,000 to 3,000 visitors per day in winter, roughly 10 times normal attendance, driven by global interest in Punch.
- Abandoned shortly after birth and bottle‑reared, Punch began a staged reintroduction to a macaque group in February, according to the zoo.
- He clings to his IKEA plush less often and is starting to socialize with peers, though staff note he sometimes returns to the toy.
- The zoo cites an unprecedented influx of visitors and donations, with tourists and online followers using the #HangInTherePunch hashtag.
- PETA condemns his display in captivity, while zoo officials say observed dominance is typical macaque social behavior and that his progress is being closely monitored.