Dinder National Park (DNP). 07/01/05; Sennar State; 1,084,600 ha; 12°19'N 034°47'E. National Park, UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. A very large complex of about 40 wetlands, or "mayas", and pools formed by meanders and oxbows that are part of the Rahad and Dinder river drainage systems bordering the frontier with Ethiopia in southeastern Sudan. Both rivers and their tributaries, coming from the Ethiopian highlands across the flat plain of the Park, are seasonal and flow from June to November, peaking in August. The wetlands are vital as a source of water and of the most nutritious grasses for herbivores, especially during the most severe part of the dry season. A large number of animal species are supported, some of which, like the tiang Damaliscus korrigum, are endangered. Located in the center of migration routes among three continents, the site is visited by a large number of species of migratory birds, and some of the mayas contain quantities of fish throughout the dry season. Recent archaeological investigations at many locations within the park show promise of important finds from ancient Meroitic and medieval Fung sultanate periods. The local population practices agriculture and pastoralism and many are nomadic within the park during dry and rainy seasons. Illegal fires set by non-local nomadic grazers, poachers, and honey collectors are cited as among the chief threats to the site. Ramsar site no. 1461. Most recent RIS information: 2005.