When I lived in Liberia, I was unaware of the weaverbird, whose range includes a number of West African nations. Now, however, I try to spot one whenever I see its nests. This small bird is so-named because of the intricate nests that it weaves using grass stems and other plant fibers. It starts its cylindrical-shaped nest by knotting a strand to a branch using only its beak and claw! The rest of the stems are interlaced in a weaving pattern to form the nest that has a narrow entrance. The opening faces downward to protect the eggs and young from snakes and other predators. As with many species of birds, the male weaverbird does the nest-building in an attempt to attract a female.
Dignity:Liberia’s goal is to attract women to House of Home and Dignity to provide a safe place to stay during their final week of pregnancy. The maternity waiting home is being built by men wielding simple tools - though more complex than a beak and claw (see May’s blog). Many of the construction workers, volunteers, and other men contributing to the success of this project are fathers themselves. We thank them for their hard work and wish them a Happy Father’s Day.
Dignity:Liberia’s goal is to attract women to House of Home and Dignity to provide a safe place to stay during their final week of pregnancy. The maternity waiting home is being built by men wielding simple tools - though more complex than a beak and claw (see May’s blog). Many of the construction workers, volunteers, and other men contributing to the success of this project are fathers themselves. We thank them for their hard work and wish them a Happy Father’s Day.
 | Kathy Beth StavinohaKathy Beth graduated from high school in Monrovia, Liberia in 1977. She retired from St. Edward’s University after 21+ years of service. She lives in Brenham, TX with her husband and cat. |
RSS Feed