The geographic range of the bonobo (Pan paniscus) is limited to the left bank of the Congo River (Figure 1). The eastern boundary is thought to be the Lomami or Lualaba River; to the south, bonobo distribution is limited by the Kasai-Sankuru Rivers. However, with the exception of some areas, the precise location of bonobos in this range is unknown. This lack of knowledge accounts for the large variation in overall bonobo population size estimates. Recent publications agree on a figure of around 15,000 to 20,000 individuals, as proposed by the Bonobo/Pygmy Chimpanzee Protection Fund (Japan, 1992). All of these figures are based on the single extensive survey made by Dr. Kano in 1984. More accurate density information is currently available for some established study sites (Hashimoto and Furuichi, this volume; Thompson, this volume). An important bonobo population is known to live in the Lomako Forest (Equateur, Dem. Rep. Congo (Figure 1)). Ever since the first bonobo studies in this forest, emphasis has been placed on the optimal conditions for making this forest a reserve. At that time, however, the area was part of a Siforco logging concession (Danzer Furnierwerke GMBH & Co). In 1987, the logging company abandoned the area and even offered their wharf along the Maringa river to World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Germany. In 1990, WWF-International submitted a proposal to create a reserve of 3,800 km² to the former Institute Zairois pour la Conservation de la Nature (Figure 2). In May 1991, the proposal reached Ministry level, but due to political turmoil, it was never approved. The proposed reserve was thought to be undisturbed, suitable habitat for bonobos, and apart from the presence of researchers, without permanent human inhabitants. Thompson-Handler and her colleagues again stressed the urgent need for the creation of the Lomako Reserve. However, prior to any further progress more surveys of the region are urgently needed.