Amid ridges throughout the dense rain forest of this fertile tropic island, `Shish~kabobian communities thrive. Their existence depends upon the very land on which they live. Lush ground outside the forests allow for swidden horticulture, which provides a rich and varied diet. Other features
one would encounter if traveling through this astonishing land are rivers, swamp forests, grasslands, and coral reefs.

Due to the vastness in species of plants and animals here, the `Shish~kabobian people are able to provide reliable shelters, nutritious meals, and an overall stable and fulfilling life for themselves and their families. This verdant land plays a major role in their connection to nature, as well as, their beliefs.

Much like the neighboring island of Mekka`, the `Shish~kabob experience a monsoonal climate with two seasons: wet and dry. Year round average temperatures range from 79 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit, with exception for cooler periods during the wet season and at higher altitudes. This is a far cry from those of the Freezinzarsoff, who live in the Arctic Tundra with temperatures maxing out in the low 50's.

October through April is marked as the "wet season," when the air is filled with moisture, feeling very hot and heavy. May through September is known as the "dry season," where humidity remains low and possible droughts may occur, drying up vital watering holes and creeks. These seasonal changes are very important to the `Shish~kabobian people. They have a strong belief that LahBu-Ku (their god) and the spirits amongst the trees have much to do with climate control and a successful growing season.

During the "wet season," the island gains tremendously in the availability of fresh water streams and substantial growth in the wide range of plant life. This is also important for how the `Shish~kabobians maintain their resources. Rainfall is at its heaviest in the highlands, with average annual precipitation varying between 79 to 197 inches.
Throughout the dense rainforest, fertile ground, and sparkling seas, the `Shish~kabob culture is surrounded by immense wildlife. This includes: pigs, rodents & small game, monkeys, bats, birds (pigeons, parrots, etc), lizards, insects, crayfish, turtles, abundance of fish and frogs, and marine mammals. Many of these varied creatures are found within the forest (with the exception of aquatic life). The `Shish~kabob, although mainly horticulturists, do rely on some of these resources for food; mainly pigs, rodents/small game, some birds and insects, fish, and prawns/crayfish.

As for birds, the number of available species increases with increasing altitude, while for plants, the opposite is true. This allows for ease in accessibility to the culture's main source of nutrition. Trees are everywhere and highly varied. Sago palms grow in abundance along streams, while inside the rain forest, moss, ferns, and vines are plentiful. Food sources available from these plants are: sago, bananas, coconuts, pineapple, mango, passion fruit, citrus fruit, breadfruit, sweet potatoes, taro, yams, sugarcane, green vegetables,avocado, and bamboo. Cocoa, coffee, and copra are also amongst these many riches and highly valued within the culture. (Harvesting of Sago Palms)


Other natural resources provided by the land are gold, copper, silver, timber, natural gas, oil and
fisheries. The wealth and availability of such natural resources, as well as, copious fruits and
vegetables, are valuable assets to the `Shish~kabobians. These "riches" provide for trade and gift giving between families within the community, similar to that which occurs in Papua New Guinea.

Also, comparable to the Kaluli, the `Shish~kabob acknowledge and appreciate the island's rich forests and vegetation. Not only does it grant nourishment to the people and supply tools used in fishing and horticulture, but is also the foundation that binds all other aspects of the culture together.