Pitcairn Islands
Climates, landuse, and plants and animals
The climate is humid and tropical. Rainfall is moderate with no strong seasonal pattern.The island is subject to infrequent typhoons. Since the Pitcairn Islands were born from volcanic activity there is little endemic wildlife on the islands. Wildlife that is endemic is mainly in the form of birds. It has very few non-native plants. Abutilon Pitcairnese is one endemic plant that was found in 2002.
Natural resources, people and languages, religions
English is the official language and spoken by everyone. Pitkern, a mixture of 18th century English and Tahitian with a bit of sailing jargon thrown in, is spoken by the residents amongst themselves. Some natural resources include: miro trees (used for handicrafts), and fish. Iron copper, gold, sivler, and zinc have been discovered off shore. Most of the population are Seventh Day Adventists.
Education, history, imports and exports
Education on the South Pacific Pitcairn Islands is simple when compared with more sophisticated nations. There is only one school and there is only one full-time teacher known as the Education Officer. The history of the islands began with colonization of the islands by Polynesians in the 11th century. Imports and Exports: Dairy produce; birds eggs, and natural honey.
Traditions, customs, and foods
A tradition is a birthday celebration. The entire community gets together for dinner when the ship/yacht has arrived. Sea food is predominant. Food staples grown there are sweet potatoes, arrowroot, cabbage, beans, tomatoes, melons, breadfruit, and citrus fruits.
Current issues, and chalanges
Pitcairn Island's first postage stamps were issued on 15 October 1940, and issues have been sought after by philatelists, or those seeking a connection with the Pitcairn Islands and its fascinating history involving the HMAV Bounty. (also known as HM Armed Vessel Bounty, was a small merchant vessel purchased by the Royal Navy for a botanical mission. The ship, under the command of William Bligh, was sent to the Pacific Ocean to get breadfruit plants and transport them to British possessions in the West Indies. That mission was never completed, due to a mutiny led by the acting Master, Fletcher Christian.)