WCS-Congo. The tropical lowland forest of central Africa is the second largest forest in the world, and home to an extraordinary range of biological diversity. Three of the world's four species of Great Apes are found there (gorillas, chimpanzees and bonobos), along with half the elephants of Africa, rare animals such as the bongo and the okapi, and a wealth of different types of trees, plants and fruits. They provide humans with food, shelter, wood, and medicines, as well as helping to prevent global warming. The delicate balance that exists within this ecosystem is now under threat. Poachers have brought some species to the brink of extinction, irresponsible loggers have destroyed large areas of forest, and pressures from an increasing human population have seen large areas of wilderness converted into farmland. This excessive exploitation of the forest's natural resources means that the future is uncertain. In partnership with the Congolese government, WCS-Congo is helping to ensure that these forests are protected. WCS currently helps manage three Protected Areas, the Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park (NNNP), the Conkouati-Douli National Park and the Lac Télé Community Reserve, as well as a protective 'buffer zone' around NNNP. This partnership between the Congolese government and WCS ensures that these zones are effectively managed, working towards the sustainable management of the region's natural resources.