An orphaned monkey named Punch, cared for at a zoo in Japan, has received around 2,500 birthday cards from well-wishers across the world to mark his first birthday. The outpouring of support followed widespread attention after photographs emerged of the abandoned monkey cuddling a stuffed toy orangutan, which struck a chord with animal lovers internationally.

Zoo staff have been caring for Punch since he was abandoned, and the image of him clutching the toy orangutan for comfort helped his story spread online and in the media. The huge volume of cards sent for his first birthday reflects the widespread public sympathy and affection his plight generated.