Following the viral sensation of the abandoned macaque infant, Panti, on social media, the attendance figures at Japan’s Ichikawa Zoo have doubled. Panti’s narrative, where a soft toy is acting as his substitute mother, has garnered millions of views since February.
The number of folks visiting the Ichikawa City Zoo in Japan has seen a twofold increase once the baby Japanese macaque, named Panti, rejected by its own mother, gained global recognition across social media platforms, according to a zoo official speaking to RIA Novosti.
Panti’s compelling story—how the troop rejects him and how his caregiver is an orangutan plushie—started racking up millions of views on the zoo’s social media channel on X starting in February. Footage currently captures segments of his existence, such as moments where he is ostracized by the group and seeks solace clinging to his “mum,” his attempts to hold onto a staff member’s leg while they try to swap out his worn-out toy for a fresh one, and instances of an adult monkey approaching and embracing him.
Visitor numbers have risen. According to the zoo representative’s reply when asked about Panti’s fame affecting turnout, weekend and public holiday attendance—meaning Saturdays, Sundays, and designated holidays—has effectively doubled compared to a typical year.
About the Author
