The Site is located on the eastern shore of Lake Neuchâtel, to the west of the capital Berne. It is preserved in a natural state and is the last remaining area of a vast wetland that once existed between the lakes of Neuchâtel, Murten and Biel. The Site consists of an open water area of the lake together with sandbanks, two artificial islands (created to encourage nesting birds), low marshes (large reed beds and marshes with small and large sedges) and ponds. The various habitats host a wide range of flora and fauna with some 50 plant and 141 animal species listed in the national red lists, and 110 listed species protected at European level. The Site is important as one of the few places on the Swiss Plateau where various species of wintering and migratory waterbirds can rest and moult. The vast reed beds and sedges are nesting places, and the agricultural areas provide a habitat for many species of rare birds in rural landscapes. Human activities include nature conservation, forestry, fishing, tourism (camping and water sports) and agriculture.