The Frank Carter Impoundments at Back Bay NWR offer a promising birding habitat, comprising 25 acres with five impoundments surrounded by dirt dikes. Unlike the more popular impoundments at the main Back Bay Refuge, this hotspot is rarely visited by birders or, for that matter, by anyone. Only 106 species were listed on eBird’s “Bird Observations” as of February 9, 2021 (https://ebird.org/barchart?r=L8257838&yr=all&m=), probably because this location is such a well-kept secret. Difficult-to-find, crepuscular and nocturnal species can be heard near the parking lot, such as Chuck-will’s-widow and American Woodcock. These impoundments are also home to Wood Ducks, herons, and egrets. Woodpeckers, sparrows, warblers, and a variety of other small birds can be found in the trees and shrubs. Hopefully as the word gets out and more birders report more species, there will be more to add to this description!
Accessibility: The Frank Carter Impoundments are located on the west side of Colchester Road, about half a mile south of Sandbridge Road. There is a sign, but it is easy to miss. A gravel parking lot can hold 5 or 6 cars. There are no restroom facilities. Mowing is sporadic at best, so dress appropriately. From the parking lot, step across the low barrier and walk west until you reach a T-intersection. The impoundments will be straight ahead and clustered together. A 1-mile walking trail circles the cluster of impoundments. The view of the impoundments is often blocked by tall reeds and/or other vegetation. If you turn right at the T-intersection, you’ll soon reach a platform overlooking one of the impoundments.
Owner/Manager: US Fish & Wildlife Service
eBird Hotspot: Back Bay NWR--Frank Carter Impoundments
—Cindy Hamilton, February 2021