What is the African transition zone?

The African transition zone known as Sahel is one of the nation's eight major geographic regions boasting its own unique mix of flora and fauna. It is located in northern Africa and is so named because its long, narrow shape creates a transition zone between the Sahara and the savanna.

The Sahel runs a full 3,300 miles across Africa. Although it is semi-arid, it includes the fertile lands of the Niger delta. Severe drought has been compounded by deforestation and extensive agriculture, which is rapidly turning the Sahel into desert lands. The most common animal in the region is the Senegal gerbil. Baobabs, acacia, and cram-cram are the most abundant vegetation.