Rejected by his mother soon after birth, the six-month-old was hand-raised by zookeepers and was given a plush toy for comfort – a detail that sparked global emotion as clips showed him approaching other monkeys before retreating to his toy, leaving viewers teary-eyed and protective.

Malaysian primatologist Mariani Ramli, founder and president of the Gibbon Conservation Society, said the intense public reaction is rooted in something profoundly relatable.

“The baby primate’s first relationship determines its physical, emotional and mental development,” she explained to FMT Lifestyle.

“Mother’s touch is the first touch that connects to them. Clinging, grooming and nursing are the assurance of safety that shapes how the brain develops.”

What people perceive as heartbreakingly cute, she added, is actually “a highly functional biology doing exactly what it is evolved to do.” Maternal rejection, while difficult to witness, is not uncommon in primate societies.

Read the full article →

Now retrieving an image set.

HONEY CARE All-Absorb A26 Male Dog Wrap, 50 Count, Small

(46549804)

$17.99 (as of February 23, 2026 20:16 GMT -06:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)

Now retrieving an image set.

Purina Fancy Feast Grilled Wet Cat Food Seafood Collection in Wet Cat Food Variety Pack - (Pack of 24) 3 oz. Cans

(47546127)

$22.86 (as of February 23, 2026 20:16 GMT -06:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)

Now retrieving an image set.

Greenies Veterinarian-Recommended Adult Natural Dental Dog Treats Teenie Size, Dog Dental Chews, Original Flavor, 36 oz. Pack, 130 Count

(48568925)

$25.99 (as of February 23, 2026 20:16 GMT -06:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)

Now retrieving an image set.

Meow Mix Original Choice Dry Cat Food, 6.3 Pound Bag

(47550161)

$8.99 (as of February 23, 2026 20:16 GMT -06:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)

Now retrieving an image set.

Milk-Bone Original Dog Treats Biscuits for Medium Dogs, 10 Pound

(48578867)

$14.98 (as of February 23, 2026 20:16 GMT -06:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)