The Upper Clarence has the best of both worlds, being at the overlap of southern more temperate climatic influences, and northern more tropical weather patterns. Add to this the ever interesting and varying topography ranging from small mountain gullies to broad alluvial floodplains, to remnant volcanic crags, and you have a recipe for an area with one of the highest levels of biodiversity in Australia, and even the world.

The remnant Antarctic Beech forests of the highest peaks in Mt Nothofagus and Mt Clunie National Parks, contrast with the subtropical rainforests of Tooloom, Cambridge Plateau and Pretty Gully, and the Dry Rainforests of Mallanganee. The tall Flooded Gum forests with Bangalow Palm understoreys contrast with the dry Spotted Gum forests and more open woodlands of western areas. And of course, as the vegetation changes so does the fauna that calls it home.

Areas around Tooloom have the highest diversity of large and small kangaroo species in the world. Birds abound, with species such as Alberts Lyrebird, Brush Turkeys, White Eared Monarchs and Marbled Frogmouths adding to the atmosphere of the Rainforest, while many waterbirds including the Jabiru, Black Swan, Pelican and Spoonbill visit the rivers and wetlands. Of course the majestic Wedgetail Eagle can often be seen soaring the thermals up and down the valleys, searching for food.