When the last glacier retreated, they stayed here because of the suitable climate. The air is moist, so it is a haven for many amphibious creatures. Salamanders are plentiful here and live in the cooler areas, like under rocks, fallen trees, and in shady spots. There are many different heights in this region, so different flora can grow here. There is a large variety of trees, from deciduous in the lower areas to coniferous trees in the higher elevations.
Many mushrooms grow in the shade here also.
Many animals also live here. The famous whitetail deer lives here, and there is a small number of mountain lions. The bald eagle once soared over the area, but now it is rare to even hear of a sighting. All of these animals need this basic climate to survive, so some can't be found anywhere else. The region is in the Temperate Zone, so the climate is neither too hot or too cold.