Orphaned Monkey Who Loves Plushie Celebrates First Birthday
Punch, an orphaned monkey at a Japanese zoo known for his attachment to an orangutan plushie, is celebrating his first birthday on Sunday, receiving numerous birthday messages from the public.

Raleigh Durham, NC, July 26, 2026 —
Punch, an orphaned monkey residing at a Japanese zoo, is set to celebrate his first birthday on Sunday. The young primate has garnered public attention for his unusual bond with an orangutan plush toy.
Punch became an orphan at a young age and has since developed a notable attachment to the orangutan-shaped stuffed animal. This unique companionship has captured the hearts of many visitors and online observers.
In anticipation of Punch’s first birthday, the zoo has seen an outpouring of well wishes and messages from the public. These messages reflect a widespread affection for the young monkey and his beloved plushie.
The specific zoo where Punch resides was not provided in the available information. Further details regarding any planned birthday festivities at the zoo or the origin of the orangutan plushie were also not disclosed.
Story summarized from the original created by AP on abc7.com, see more information here.
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