The home of the viral baby monkey, Punch, at the Ichikawa City Zoological and Botanical Garden in Japan, is responding to public concerns about the health of its Japanese macaques, including Punch, and the environment where the internet-famous primate lives.
In a statement posted on February 25th, the zoo addressed questions from visitors who have flocked to see Punch, whose full name is Punch-kun, in recent weeks. The statement began by noting that many visitors are currently coming to the zoo to see the baby monkey and have asked about his health and that of his fellow macaques.
The update comes after some guests observed noticeable hair loss among several macaques in the troop. According to the zoo, veterinarians have confirmed that the monkeys' food intake and weight are appropriate and that "no clear sickness is evident." The staff believes that the hair loss is primarily caused by excessive grooming, a behavior that increases during colder months when macaques huddle together for warmth.
To address this issue, three staff members have been working since June 2025 to test ways to improve conditions. The zoo also addressed criticism of the "monkey mountain" habitat, saying "animal welfare is the top priority."
Officials noted that four back rooms (not visible to visitors) remain open at all times and that Punch uses those spaces as a retreat. They stated that many of the trees provided for environmental enrichment have become excellent play tools, especially for the young monkeys, including Punch. "We are always seeking the best ways to improve the environment," they added.
However, the zoo said it must balance environmental changes with Punch's social development. The baby macaque is still integrating into the troop, and "making a radical change" to the habitat could disrupt group dynamics or lead to further bullying. For now, the zoo's staff said they are prioritizing Punch's safe acceptance into the group while continuing to evaluate improvements.
Punch, who was abandoned by his mother after his birth in July 2025, was raised by zoo caretakers during his first few months of life. The tiny macaque was given an orangutan stuffed animal to keep him company, which became a close companion to the monkey when he later joined the other macaques at the zoo and struggled to make friends. Clips of Punch cuddling with his plush companion and making inroads with the other macaques have propelled the animal to viral stardom and have led to an increase in foot traffic at the baby monkey's zoo.
With visitor numbers climbing, the zoo is asking for continued support "of Punch and the other troop monkeys" as it works to address health concerns and ensure the well-being of the entire group.
