On July 25, Punch, an orphaned monkey at Ichikawa City Zoo in Chiba prefecture, celebrated its first birthday. The occasion was marked by thousands of congratulatory cards from well-wishers worldwide, a testament to the baby monkey's remarkable journey.

A year ago, Punch was abandoned by its mother shortly after birth. For six months, two dedicated staff members provided special care, during which Punch found solace by clutching a stuffed orangutan.

Punch's story resonated deeply, turning the little monkey into a beloved figure. Zoo director Takashi Yasunaga noted the overwhelming support, stating the facility received around 2,500 cards from Japan and abroad. These cards were displayed in a commemorative area, accompanied by a video documenting Punch's growth. Yasunaga reflected, "It was very hot the day Punch was born. Every time the hot season returns, that memory comes back."

Birthday wishes for Punch, displayed before its first birthday. Photo: AP

In mid-January, Punch began integrating with a troop of 50 monkeys. Initially, when chased away by its peers, the young monkey would instinctively seek comfort in its stuffed animal. An image capturing this poignant scene was posted on social media in February, quickly going viral and attracting tens of thousands of visitors to the zoo, with half being international tourists. Fans rallied behind Punch, using the hashtag #HangInTherePunch to offer encouragement.

Punch's journey has inspired many on a personal level. Kumi Ishizawa, a resident of Kobe, shared that she read about Punch earlier this year while undergoing medical treatment. She set a personal goal to recover and visit the monkey. "Punch motivated me," Ishizawa said, having since recovered and visited the zoo for Punch's birthday. Similarly, Yeye Lights, a resident of Ichikawa City, purchased an annual pass after her daughter in the Philippines shared Punch's story with her.

The monkey's widespread popularity translated into significant benefits for the zoo. As of mid-July, Punch's fame helped the zoo raise 58 million yen (approximately 350,000 USD) in donations. These funds were crucial, enabling the installation of a new air conditioning system for the facility. "Thanks to Punch's popularity, both the monkey troop and the entire zoo benefited from improved living conditions," Yasunaga explained. Currently, Punch enjoys resting under trees for most of the day and becomes more active in the evening.

For Junko Hara, 38, who personally delivered a birthday card, Punch embodies resilience. "Seeing Punch makes me feel happier too," she remarked. The orphaned monkey's remarkable journey from abandonment to a beloved symbol continues to touch hearts and bring joy to many.

Baby monkey Punch being chased by adult monkeys at Ichikawa City Zoo, Tokyo suburbs, Japan on 19/2. Video: X/Ian Miles Cheong