The Great Morass is the protected wetland that lies behind Seven Mile Beach, separating the beach strip from the rest of the island. It is one of Jamaica's most important bird habitats — herons, egrets, jacanas, and the Jamaican coney have all been recorded here. The morass acts as a natural buffer protecting the beach from inland runoff; it also keeps the tourist strip narrow and contained. Guided boat trips into the wetland can be arranged through operators on the beach road.