Orphaned baby chimp dies in SA zoo

An orphaned and sickly baby chimpanzee has died only weeks after his mother at a South Australian zoo.

Boon died at Monarto Zoo, southeast of Adelaide, on Sunday, possibly because of a twisted bowel and kidney complications.

Boon was adopted by fellow expectant mum, Zombi, earlier in October after his own mum Soona died giving birth.

Despite receiving around the clock care from zookeepers after losing weight, and becoming lethargic and dehydrated a week ago, Boon didn't make it.

"The chimpanzee troop will mourn the loss of their infant," Zoos SA senior veterinarian Ian Smith said on Monday.

People have begun leaving tributes for Boon on Monarto Zoo's Facebook page.

"Rest in peace baby Boon. [You're] with your beautiful Mumma now," one user wrote.

"I was so wanting a `happily ever after' for Boon and for the troop," said another person.