IKEA's orangutan plush toy has sparked public interest after it became the center of a hilarious story at a zoo in Japan. The toy became a symbol of care for Punch, a seven-month-old Japanese macaque who was abandoned by his mother in a cage. Thanks to viral videos, the news spread quickly and the plush quickly sold out in various countries.
Punch was abandoned by his mother at the Ichikawa City Zoo, prompting zookeepers to take immediate action. According to zookeeper Kosuke Shikano, it is important for young macaques to cling to their mothers to gain muscle strength and a sense of security. To meet Punch's needs, the zookeepers first tried alternatives such as rolled towels and other stuffed toys before finally choosing the orange, big-eyed orangutan plush from IKEA.
Videos of Punch and the plush toy going viral have led to a surge in zoo visitors and a surge in demand for the same model of toy. In some countries, including Singapore, the orangutan plush has sold out of stores. Meanwhile, Punch continues to adjust to his environment and gradually socializes with other apes—a natural part of his learning process and integration into the group.
