The Site, within the basin of the Sankarani River, is located in the east of the country next to the border with Côte d'Ivoire. It is characterized by savannah and dry forest, and enormous floodplains along the length of the river. This stretch of the river is an important fish spawning ground because the current is calm, deep and well protected by gallery forests. It is also a refuge for spur-winged goose (Plectropterus gambensis), white-faced whistling duck (Dendrocygna viduata), cattle egret (Bubulcus ibis), little egret (Egretta garzetta) and African jacana (Actophilornis africana). Hippopotamuses have also become numerous within the Site because of water retained by the Sélingué dam. However, extensive agriculture accompanied by the use of fires, exploitation of gold and prohibited fishing practices have all contributed to the destruction of vegetation cover and an increasing scarcity of wildlife.