Punch’s Journey Home

Lesson overview

When a baby macaque named Punch went viral online after being abandoned by his heat-stressed mother, zoos faced a difficult question: Is hand-rearing with a stuffed toy the right solution? This lesson explores Punch’s real story through two proficiency levels. Students discover why baby primates need their troops to learn social behaviors, why reintegration is so complicated, and the darker side of viral animal fame. The internet fell in love with Punch, but will that love actually help or hurt him? Through vocabulary, discussion questions, and critical thinking activities, students grapple with the messy reality behind the heartwarming headlines.