The Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) said early on Monday that eight animals have been found dead in the Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens.

It said officials found the dead monkeys on Sunday, and the dead primates included one De Brazza’s Monkey, one Common Squirrel Monkey, three Cotton-top Tamarins and three White-faced Sakis.

The LCSD said it's liaising with officials from the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department, and autopsies and other tests are being carried out to determine the cause of death.

It said the mammals section of the facility will be closed from Monday for disinfection and cleaning works pending the results of the tests.

"We will also closely monitor the health conditions of other animals," it said in a statement.

"During this period, other facilities of the HKZBG will remain open."