CHIMP-NAMING CONTEST HAS HUMANS GOING APE.

Byline: Kathryn Combs Staff Writer

The project to name the Los Angeles Zoo's 2-month-old chimp is in full swing.

Zoo officials already have collected some 300 names for the infant ape whom, keeper Katherine Jaynes says, has a certain quiet dignity.

``He should have a dignified name,'' Jaynes said.

So far, the promoter Radio Disney has received about 300 entries including names such as Chimpy, George, Baby Tarzan, Joey and Max.

Other, perhaps less dignified, suggestions: Abu, Toko, Bongo or even Bingo. One little girl has suggested Lazoo.

Radio Disney spokeswoman Natalie Eig expects many more.

``Kids love animals and now they have a chance to be part of a community where they can name the chimp and then go to the zoo and see it,'' Eig said.

Eig expects thousands of entries by the deadline of 5 p.m. Aug. 22. After that, officials will narrow the list and make a final choice within a week or two after the deadline.

The contest winner will get a behind-the-scenes tour of the Chimps of Mahale Mountain exhibit, to get a closer and more personal look at the chimpanzees.

Kids interested in participating can call [phone] or mail entries to Radio Disney at PO Box 710, Los Angeles, CA 90016.