Laura Erickson's For the Birds

One of Laura's most magical experiences in Colorado came about because she tried, and failed, to get pictures of a little flock of Horned Larks.

Laura just got home from a trip to Colorado and got to thinking about *The Wizard of Oz*.

Agnes's bird in the movie and book, *Hamnet* is specified to be a falcon--a kestrel. But the falcon was portrayed in the movie by a completely unrelated bird from an entirely different continent--a Harris's Hawk. Laura didn't mind this at all--indeed, there were excellent reasons for using this "incorrect" species. Laura is in Colorado right now--this was recorded in her hotel room. She doesn't know if there will be more new programs this week--after today this is going to be one intense birding trip.

Most "For the Birds" programs have been pretty straightforward, but Laura's occasionally done some silly programs.

Laura never imagined doing anything on the radio, until a cataclysmic event made her rush in to fill a vacuum.