The range is a protected natural area, and provides surface water, groundwater recharge, wildlife habitat, and recreation for the surrounding region.

They separate the Bajío plain to the south from the higher Mexican Plateau to the north.

Native mammals include white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), Peters's squirrel (Sciurus oculatus), and Mexican long-nosed bat (Leptonycteris nivalis).

Resident and migratory birds include peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus), great horned owl (Bubo virginianus), and American wigeon (Mareca americana).

Native reptiles include the Querétaro dusky rattlesnake (Crotalus aquilus), rough-footed mud turtle (Kinosternon hirtipes), and mesquite lizard (Sceloporus grammicus).