Attitude

• One man mentioned a black-winged storm bird known as “manumanunicagi” that glides above the land only when a cyclone is forming out to sea.
• As the conversation continued, residents named at least 11 bird species, the odd behaviour of which signalled imminent changes in the weather.
• We reviewed evidence on traditional knowledge in the Pacific for coping with climate change, and found much of it was scientifically plausible.

A proven, robust system

• People have inhabited the Pacific Islands for 3,000  years or more and have experienced many climate-driven challenges to their livelihoods and survival.
• They have coped not by luck but by design – through robust systems of traditional knowledge built by diverse groups of people over time.
• Traditional knowledge in the Pacific explains the causes and manifestations of natural phenomena, and identifies the best ways to respond.

Reading the ocean and sky

• In Vanuatu’s Torres Islands, 13 phrases exist to describe the state of the tide, including anomalies that herald uncommon events.
• Distant storms can drive ocean swells onto coasts long before the winds and rain arrive, changing the usual patterns of waves.
• Winds that blow from the east (matā ‘upolu) indicate the imminent arrival of heavy rain, possibly a tropical cyclone.
• Many Pacific Island communities believe a cloudless, dark blue sky signals the arrival of a tropical cyclone.

The wisdom of animals and plants

• In Tonga, when the frigate bird flies across the land – unusual behaviour for an ocean species – it signals a tropical cyclone is developing.
• Another study, which included data on frigate birds in the Pacific, found seabirds appeared to circumvent cyclones, probably by sensing wind strength and direction.

• Traditional knowledge about insect behaviour in the Pacific Islands is also used to predict wet weather.
• Across the Pacific, common signs of impending wet weather are found in the behaviours of some plants.
• This can be explained scientifically by a process in which plant leaves close to protect their reproductive organs from extreme weather.

Planning for a warmer future

• This is true of the Pacific Islands, where in some places, traditional knowledge is all but forgotten.
• As climate change impacts worsen, optimal planning for island peoples should combine both approaches.

Patrick D. Nunn receives funding from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) via the Australia Pacific Climate Partnership (APCP), the Australian Research Council, and the Asia-Pacific Network for Global Change Research. Roselyn Kumar receives funding from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) via the Australia Pacific Climate Partnership (APCP)

• “GLP-1 weight loss drugs alone are not a silver bullet when it comes to improving the health and well-being of those living with diabetes,” said Dr. Arti Masturzo, Chief Medical Officer at CCS.
• Many of these same respondents stressed the value of additional clinical touchpoints to manage their diabetes.
• At times, infrequent patient engagement and a lack of proper education and coaching can contribute to patients with diabetes facing dangerous and costly health issues.
• Of that group, 82% also said that the emergency could have been prevented with better support in the management of their diabetes.

• "I loved being involved in community events and being recognized by kids in the community as a superhero," Hormel said.
• "I was proud to be part of such a wonderful organization that provides so many services to those in need."
• Those interested in applying may send a resume and brief statement on why they are the ideal candidate to Jauregui via email at [email protected] .
• For those ready to commit to the role, Hormel's advice is to "enjoy every moment connecting with the community, especially with the kids."

• Now, with spring just around the corner, the Foundation encourages people to ratchet up their backyarding activities by identifying their personal style and personality.
• "Your yard isn't just for aesthetics," reminds Kris Kiser, President and CEO of the TurfMutt Foundation, "It's purposeful and contributes to our and the planet's well-being.
• We encourage you to design your space that shows off your sense of style and supports what is important to your family."
• For more, sign up for Mutt Mail, a monthly e-newsletter with backyarding tips and all the news from the TurfMutt Foundation here .