Some of the ridges are thought to be eskers, marking the course of streams which flowed under the glacial ice. Plant communities on the preserve range from dry to wet prairie and marsh. Dry sites are dominated by little bluestem, mesic sites by big bluestem and Indian grass. Wet sites and marshes are dominated by slough grass, sedges, and cattail. Forbs are abundant and especially showy in June and July.
Prairies support a large community of invertebrates.
While few groups have been studied in detail, an inventory of butterflies has been conducted here. Forty three species have been found including several found only on high quality prairie. A part of the site was grazed at one time, but management is encouraging recovery of this area and maintenance of the entire site. Controlled use of fire is the most important tool. Cayler Prairie is a National Natural Landmark.