[2] The district was established to preserve the hilly terrain and unique natural features of the region, by reducing hillside erosion, landslides, and excessive storm-water runoff.
In recent years, a colony of red-tailed hawks has been spotted above the woodlands as well as the eastern screech owl, which while a common species, it has been hard to find on the island.
The eastern box turtle (Terrapene Carolina) can also be found in the area and today it is considered a vulnerable species according to U.S. Federal Government and the State Animal Wild Life.
There are also several rare, endangered or threatened plants that can be found in the Serpentine Ridge Nature Reserve including: The geology and coastal position of Staten Island add to its unique properties.
[5] The Serpentine Ridge Nature Preserve is continuously being threatened by human activity related to construction and development projects proposed in the area.