Baby monkey raised with plushie is being called the next Punch

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Okay, so this little monkey is totally blowing up online! The zoo gave him a stuffed dog to cuddle because he was feeling a bit down, and everyone’s saying he reminds them of Punch, which is hilarious and adorable. Seriously, check him out – he’s the cutest!

A baby patas monkey named Yuji was born at the Guadalajara Zoo in Mexico and is being cared for by keepers because his mother couldn’t look after him. Like another young monkey at the zoo, Yuji has been given a cuddly toy to provide some comfort and companionship.

The team is providing constant care for the baby monkey, making sure young Yuji gets plenty of food and comfort as he grows.

Yuji the baby monkey is following in Punch’s footsteps

Veterinarian Ivan Reynoso at the Guadalajara Zoo says Yuji’s habit of hugging his stuffed animal is natural behavior, and isn’t unique to just one toy.

Baby monkeys naturally feel safest when they’re with their mothers. When a mother isn’t available, a stuffed animal can provide that same sense of security, according to the veterinarian, in a Reuters report. This behavior is perfectly normal for the young monkey.

So, this little guy really needs to feel secure before he’ll explore or even eat. I’ve noticed he’s super attached to his plushie, and that’s actually a good thing. We’re going to slowly help him become less reliant on it, so by the time he’s old enough, he’ll be comfortable letting go and hanging out with the other monkeys. It’s all about building his confidence, you know?

People in Guadalajara have nicknamed him “Punch tapatío,” which roughly means “Guadalajara’s Punch” in English.

Earlier this year, a baby monkey named Punch became an internet sensation after being seen constantly cuddling a plush orangutan for comfort. Videos of Punch hugging the toy and refusing to let go quickly went viral, gaining millions of views and inspiring fan-made merchandise and artwork.

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2026-04-14 19:19