The range forms part of the Silver Flowe-Merrick Kells Biosphere Reserve, which incorporates a considerable portion of both ranges to the west and east, and is a Natura 2000 site. The area is very popular with invertebrates and swarms of Odonata, Syrphidae and Lepidoptera during summer are common. The main lochs attributed to the range are Loch Dungeon, Loch Minnoch and Loch Harrow, all on the east side and in close proximity. Loch Dungeon was known to historically contain Arctic Charr which died out due to acidification; Brown trout populations, however, survived and the water quality has improved. There are currently ten Osprey pairs known to nest in Dumfries and Galloway; these lochs are a known feeding ground. The Lochans of Auchniebut, north of Meikle Millyea and at approximately 650m, may be the highest permanent water bodies in the Southern Uplands.