While atlasing in a large field at the intersection of Norbeck and Norwood Rds. in Mont. Co., we had an adult albino barn swallow flying about. What a beauty! Sort of a pale ivory color all over, a bit more creamy on the upper breast. It foraged a while and then flew off in the direction of Layhill Rd. Lots of swallows about (nesting under the road bridges) but is the first time we've seen "Whitey".

Not any huge surprises atlasing, although a very good population of Willow Flycatchers, also Chat, Field Sparrow and Waxwings feeding young.

The big change this atlas (compared to same blocks last atlas project) is the complete loss of grassland birds in my two blocks -- no Bobwhite or Pheasant, no surprise there, but also no Meadow Larks or sparrows other than Field and Song -- despite areas with very little change in habitat.

Gail Mackiernan
Colesville, MD