Punch, who’s been all over the internet lately, was abandoned by his mother shortly after being born in Japan.

He was hand-raised and bottle-fed by zookeepers.

To comfort him, his caretakers gave him a plush orangutan toy.

Punch seems to see this toy as his mother.

He cuddles it while sleeping,

holds onto it when he feels distressed,

and even carries it with him when he goes to be around the other monkeys.

Because growth isn’t only about being fed.

Being touched.

Feeling safe.

Being accepted unconditionally.

These are the foundations of healthy development—for human babies and for other living beings alike.

Parental love helps with emotional regulation, a sense of security, and the ability to form healthy social bonds.

No matter our species,

we all grow up needing compassion, closeness,

and a place where we belong. 🤍