New videos show Punch the baby monkey all grown up and playing with his group as well as watching over a newborn. His transformation reflects the care that helped the once-bullied monkey thrive.
Punch, the baby monkey who once found comfort in a giant plush orangutan after being rejected by his mother, has apparently grown into the kind of older monkey he once needed himself. New videos show him spending time with newborn monkeys at the zoo, gently staying close to them and keeping a watchful eye over them.
Punch first became known online in February after photos from the zoo showed the tiny monkey clinging to a large orange orangutan plush toy. He had been rejected by his mother and struggled to settle in with the other monkeys, facing indifference and aggressive behavior from some members of the group. The plush toy became his constant companion after a zoo staff member provided it to offer comfort and encourage muscle development.
Months later, Punch has made significant progress. In a viral video shared on social media, Punch approaches a newborn monkey cautiously, lies down beside it, and keeps watch over the tiny animal. Observers and social media users noted the poetic nature of his journey, shifting from a vulnerable orphan carrying a stuffed toy to a supportive presence for younger animals.
Additional footage captures a more playful side of Punch interacting happily with his peers, looking far more integrated into the troop than he did during his isolated early days. Zoo keepers explained that they continue to observe the animals, provide daily care, and adjust feeding routines according to the weather and seasons, crediting consistent staff support for Punch's healthy development.
From a lonely infant leaning on a stuffed animal to a thriving young monkey playing alongside his group and protecting newborns, Punch has come a long way as keepers continue to monitor his wellbeing.