ICHIKAWA, Japan — A little monkey named Punch has reached his first birthday, and the outpouring of love from fans around the globe shows just how deeply his story touched people everywhere.
Punch first captured the world’s attention as an orphaned monkey at a zoo in Ichikawa, Japan, where he was often seen clutching an orangutan plush toy for comfort. Photos of the small primate holding tightly to the stuffed animal melted hearts and spread widely online.
Now, as Punch marks one year of life, birthday wishes have poured in from supporters all over the world. The milestone is being celebrated with a photo gallery put together by AP photo editors, showcasing the young monkey’s journey over his first year.
Though Punch has since found real companions at the zoo and no longer relies on the plush toy for comfort, his fans clearly haven’t forgotten the little monkey who once needed something to hold on to.
