The Life of Punch: How One Monkey Captured Hearts Around the World
Photo by the Ichikawa City Zoo
As of late, a monkey that resides in the Ichikawa City Zoo in Japan, Punch, has taken over the internet. People all over the world are gushing at the videos and pictures of Punch at the zoo, and here's why.
Oftentimes, mother monkeys abandon their children due to lack of food, stressful environments, or the baby monkey having bad health. Unfortunately, that is what happened to Punch. The baby monkey has turned to a stuffed animal monkey for comfort in place of his mother after his birth in July. Punch not only was abandoned by his mother, but there are also videos and clips of Punch being harassed by other monkeys in the exhibit circling the internet. People all over the world have expressed their concern for Punch and the tug of their heart strings after seeing the monkey tightly hug the stuffed animal after being attacked by other monkeys.
But don’t fret—Punch’s story has had a happy continuation so far. New videos of Punch and his new friend have surfaced on social media, and people are belated by his newfound friendship. Videos show the two monkeys staying side by side and close to each other within the exhibit. Punch has also been seen defending himself from his bullies, pulling away from being tramped and retaliating with a puffed up chest.
The reason as to why this adorable monkey has taken the hearts of millions across the world is because he represents everyone at some point in time in their life. An Instagram post by Javier Hernandez, a Mexican soccer player, reads “Punch monkey moved us because he is strong and real. He defends himself without knowing how, and we have all done this at some point.” The monkey has no bad intentions and it’s seen clearly through the videos of Punch walking away from groups of monkeys, clutching and pulling a stuffed animal close to him.
Punch has moved people in more ways than one, and people have started to offer to take the money into their own care. Under a petition organized by Change.org, supporters have said things like, “I will gladly take him in, he doesn’t deserve that” and “just look at his habitat, no trees in sight.” Other netizens say that this is a reason not to support Japanese businesses like animal cafes or zoos.
Nevertheless, Punch has gained friends and began to defend himself, which brings millions of supporters relief. As Punch grows up, his supporters are excited to see how his behaviours and social relationships continue to grow with his community.
