Dispersing yearlings, especially males, looking for new home ranges may also travel a great distance. Metal ammunition cans ($10-20) and Bear Canisters (approximately $50-60) are easily packed and transported. Distinguishing nervous behaviors (like huffing or jaw popping) from inquisitive ones (like standing up to get a good whiff of something interesting) can help make encounters positive. Stay calm. The West How can you tell if a black bear is near you? were once viewed as an animal of the wilderness and were thought to need large Often, this tolerance level depends on a persons knowledge about There is no such thing as a wild black panther living in West Virginia. Bears will not eat, drink, urinate or defecate while denning. and the types of conflicts (Figure 2) that are reported. Reasonable accommodations will be made to provide this content in alternate formats upon request. If there is a bear in your house prop open all doors to the outside and get out of the way of the exit. ECOS Environmental Conservation Online System, US Fish and Wildlife Service, American Black Bear. Nevertheless, threats to this iconic animal do exist. Black bears walk on the soles of their feet and have non-retractable claws. They are typically nocturnal and generally avoid people, but also readily adapt to and tolerate people. were low, West Virginia now has a healthy bear population statewide, and relocating Is it legal or advisable to euthanize a problem bear? Dens are usually lined with a bed of leaf litter and they have been found up to 96 feet above the ground ( they are good climbers.). In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, and reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity. Family: Ursidae to eliminate. Starting on July 1st of next year, West Virginia's public colleges and universities will no longer be "gun-free zones" where the right to bear arms is not allowed. However, bears may be attracted to food sources in residential areas and, over time, may become more comfortable around people. Cubs are born hairless, weighing about eight ounces, and with their eyes closed. Bears are attracted to residential areas by the smell of foods people commonly put out around their homes. [email protected]. They will eat grubs and other insects, roots, flowers, grasses, acorns, fruit, and carrion, as well as groundhogs, deer, and other small mammals. Black bears have a natural distrust of humans, are shy, and usually avoid people. During this period, they do not move and they remain in one place. Contact your local city or county government to inquire further. When you call the Helpline or DWR, an employee will discuss the problem with you. Breathing becomes as slow as one breath every 45 seconds. Eyesight at longer distances is poor. Bears are omnivorous and their diets vary seasonally. Citizens, communities, local governments, and DWR share the responsibility in preventing problems and keeping bears wild. believed the bear population numbered less than 500, and the future did not look You should become familiar with federal, state and local laws before beginning any wildlife control activities. TTY 711. Some bears may not den at all if they continue to find sufficient food. By the early 1950s, bear sightings were reported from all three districts with an obvious concentration in the South District. change state. The clinical signs of mange are a result of damage to the hosts skin by the burrowing mite, the immune reaction of the hosts body to the mite, and the physical tears in the skin that occurs through scratching. Black bears should always be appreciated from a distance to ensure the safety of both humans and the bears.. They can damage buildings and vehicles while searching for human-provided food. There are some clues, though, that help the bear know when it's time to find a den: shorter days, low food sources, and dropping temperatures. Black bears reside in every province in Canada except for Prince Edward Isle, and in at least 40 of the 50 states in the US. Fight back. In a blue state like Colorado those repeal efforts might get some traction, but theyre not likely to be replicated in red states like West Virginia. When natural foods are scarce, bears have to travel long distances and go out more often to find. As a result, they eat animals that are more readily captured due to age or weakness caused by injury or illness thus having some influence on population dynamics of some species. Black bears (Ursus americanus) are 5 to 6 feet long (nose to rump), typically stand 2.5 to 3 feet at the shoulder, and weigh 100 to 400 lbs. At that point, the bear may need to be destroyed. The National Park Service has taken extensive measures to keep bears and people separated from one another. The black bear population in West Virginia is now considered statewide, and bears have been harvested in 46 of the 55 counties in recent years. Depending on weather and food conditions, black bears enter their winter dens between October and January. Unprovoked bear attacks are very rare, and have never been documented in Virginia. Imagine what that does to the ecosystem and your experience as a visitor coming to see a bear. Wipe table and clean eating area thoroughly. Black bear mating season occurs during the summer, but the embryos do not begin to develop until the mother bear enters her den. "Counties that will be open for bear hunting during the buck gun season have been opened to slow bear population growth and provide additional hunting . 1900 Kanawha Boulevard East Research into the life cycle of the black bear helped wildlife biologists learn Hibernation can last days, weeks, or months depending upon the species. The state Division of Natural Resources conducted a poll to elect a state animal as a symbol for West Virginia in 1954-55. Bears typically den (hibernate) in fall (late October-early December) and emerge in spring (March-April). I have collected a lot of useful and interesting information for you in my blog. Bears are omnivorous and their diets vary seasonally. Black bear photo Roy Mac on Flickr (all rights reserved; used by permission). A modified diet can include farm crops, gardens, small livestock, beehives, bird feeder seeds, pet food and garbage. In Virginia most black bears are true black in color unlike black bears found in more western states that can be shades of red, brown or blond. conflicts is likely. According to data from recreational sightings, hunter harvest, road kills, and Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) field staff, bears occur in at least 92 of Virginias 98 counties and cities. A hibernating animal will experience a slow heartbeat rate as well as lower body temperatures matching that of the environment. The Fairfax County Animal Protection Police do not take action to remove bears from neighborhoods. But campuses and the vast majority of classroom buildings will no longer be considered sensitive places where guns can be banned, and thats a very good thing. If you think that the posting of any material infringes your copyright, be sure to contact us through the contact form and your material will be removed! On occasion they may venture from their dens, walk about, and return to denning. Fact: A bear stands on its hind legs to get a better view and smell of the surroundings. Shy and secretive, the sighting of a bear is a rare treat for most Virginians. Male black bears (boars) are between five and six feet long and two to three feet tall and they typically weigh between 100 and 300 pounds. In Virginia, most bears in mountainous areas den in large, hollow trees. When visitors feed bears, its a recipe for trouble. Emergency Phone: 1-800-732-0911, Download the official NPS app before your next visit. Handling of a mange-infested bear should be minimized to avoid unnecessary exposure. Do not store food, garbage, or toiletries in your tent! Copyright 2023 BearingArms.com/Salem Media. Females (sows) range in weight between 100 and 175 pounds. Black bears (Ursus americanus) are not always black - there are cinnamon, white, beige, and "blue" (slate gray) black bears. year-round residents of the area within 3 miles of city limits. Our tolerance levels for bears Shotguns work at much less. bear population. Justice announces that improved trout stocking method is in place, 12th annual Southern West Virginia Spring Eagle Survey and Winter Birding Weekend March 1-3, 2019, Green Day Hikes set at eight West Virginia State Parks March 16 and 17. If you surprise a bear speak softly. At times, a DWR employee may visit your property to discuss additional options. Bears typically den (hibernate) in fall (late October-early December) and emerge in spring (March-April). There are still many unknowns about mange in black bears. Females will have their cubs around February and nurse them in the den. ATTENTION TO RIGHT HOLDERS! It is an exciting time of the year for bears and park visitors. No guarantee is made that information (or lack of information) associated with a species or control technique is completely accurate or current. As indicated above, black bears can become a nuisance when they seek sources of food and come in close contact with people. living in close proximity to people vary greatly. High 49F. These precautions include wearing disposable gloves, using a permethrin-based insect repellent on clothes/gear (as instructed by the label), bagging gloves and any other disposable equipment after use, and disposing of them in a dumpster or similar location. As you move away, make noise to let the bear discover your presence. In the United States there are estimated to be over 300,000 black bears and approximately 8,000 individuals bears in West Virginia.If you are lucky enough to see a bear in West Virginia, remember that West Virginia bears are wild. Beckley, WV (25801) Today. Jim Justice for their successful effort to expand the Second Amendments protections to college and university settings. Around homes, bears may scavenge for food in garbage containers and bird feeders and for pet and livestock food left outside. In the eastern United States, black bear range is continuous throughout New England but becomes increasingly fragmented from the mid-Atlantic down through the Southeast. ready access to human foods in the form of garbage, pet food, and bird and animal One of the many reasons people visit national parks with bears is to experience a wild place capable of supporting healthy populations of black and grizzly bears. It is up to humans to change their own behaviors to avoid conflicts. DWR will not trap or relocate a bear that is eating from your trash or birdfeeder. The students, teachers, and sportsmen of West Virginia chose the black bear as the animal symbol for their state by a large margin. Black bears historically ranged over most of the forested regions of North America, and significant portions of northern Mexico. Females will have their cubs around February and nurse them in the den. Adult black bears are approximately 4 to 7 feet from nose to tail, and two to three feet high at the withers. Residents are reminded that feeding black bears is a violation of state law as well as a misguided disservice to our state animal, according to Colin Carpenter, black bear project leader for the Division of Natural Resources (DNR) Wildlife Resources Section. My name is Kevin and I am delighted to present to you my blog about game hunting. The bears in the Northeastern part of the state having only shown up in recent years and have moved into the state from Northwest Georgia. If they can gather enough food, some bears may choose not to hibernate. From the late 1970s to the early 1990s, staff from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and University (VPI) studied bear population dynamics, denning, movements, habitat, and diet in Shenandoah. A mating pair may stay together for one to several days, then part ways. The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources has established bear guidelines that promote public safety, protect property, and conserve bear populations. feeders on a year-round basis. Move outside garbage or compost containers into a bear resistant shed, garage, or other secured location or prevent access with electric fencing. Leave your dog at home or have it on a leash at all times. ECOS Environmental Conservation Online System, US Fish and Wildlife Service Human-bear conflicts fluctuate yearly, and throughout the year, based on natural Never run away from or approach him. Twins are most common, though up to four cubs is not unheard of and first-time mothers typically have only a single cub. Virginia Administrative Code states: It shall be unlawful for any person as defined in 1-230 (Code of Virginia) to place, distribute, or allow the placement of food, minerals, carrion, trash, or similar substances to feed or attract bear. The black Bear is a solitary creature (except females with cubs). What is the best way to hunt in RDR2 online? Black bears are omnivorous. 22835, 540 999-3500 Males commonly weigh between 130 to 500 pounds. With Justice putting pen to paper, there are now a dozen states across the country that have campus carry laws in place, though there might be small variances in state statutes. campaign to teach people how to live responsibly with black bears. Never close a bear into a room. They will emerge in April or May, usually after the adult males have been out of their own dens for a while. There are approximately 900,000 black bears in North America. Bears are agile and quick, and they are excellent climbers. Life Span: Bears may live up to 30 years in the wild. Removal of a bear from an area is a decision not taken lightly, is normally a last result, and typically a consequence of human actions related to intentional or unintentional feeding. Bears are agile and quick, and they are excellent climbers. Reports of mange in new areas outside of the 14 county zone are responded to in accordance with established field protocols to quickly assess whether an animal is infested with mange or not. Black bears inhabit wetlands, woodlands, suburban and urban areas of Fairfax County. This video cannot be displayed in your browser. Lawn, Gardening & Pests Learning Activities, Considerations for a Safer Hunting Season. When visiting the park you have a responsibility to keep your distance from the bears, not attempt to feed any wildlife in the park, and to properly handle, store, and dispose of your food and garbage. National Geographic Society, Bear, Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries. Although it may be tempting to feed scraps to a bear that wanders near your home, dont risk it. Their body temperature is reduced by about 12 degrees Fahrenheit but stays above 88 degrees Fahrenheit. Rain likely. Chipmunks reduce their heart rate from the usual 350 beats per minute to an almost undetectable 4 beats per minute during hibernation. Their diet is mostly plant material, but also includes small mammals, carrion and garbage. How big do black bears get in West Virginia? Scientific Name: Ursus americanus americanus. With an unusually high. Last updated on January 22, 2021. Black bears are generally solitary, except females caring for cubs. In addition, ongoing research in other states has not demonstrated the long-term effectiveness of treating bears with mange. In addition, increasing human populations in conjunction with increasing bear populations can lead to negative interactions that may harm individual bears. Effectively securing our trash and removing See answer (1) Best Answer. These conflicts arise as the bears are attracted to human-provided The black bear population in West Virginia is now considered statewide,and Within the park, male black bears were found to occupy ranges of from 10 to nearly 300 square miles while females ranged in areas from approximately 1 to 20 square miles. The state Division of Natural Resources conducted a poll to elect a state animal as a symbol for West Virginia in 1954-55. Black bear cub in tree;photo Benjamin Olson on Flickr (all rights reserved;used by permission). Hiking at dawn or dusk may increase your chances of meeting a bear. Others will tolerate bears raiding their bird feeders or scattering in the past, when nuisance bears could be moved to locations where bear populations Jim Justice signed SB 10 into law, completing the legislations rapid journey into law. Learn more about the WV DNR Black Bear Research and Tracking Project here. A natural diet includes fruits, berries, plants, nuts, insects, small mammals and fawns. Many people enjoy the opportunity to see bears in the wild. If the bear enters the tent fight back and yell. Depending on weather and food conditions, black bears enter their winter dens between October and January. Cubs usually weigh between seven ounces and one pound at birth. Habituated bears can pose public safety concerns and in some unfortunate circumstances may have to be killed. Habitat: Incredibly adaptable, black bears occupy a greater range of habitats than any bear in the world. Black bears are the only species of bear found in Shenandoah National Park. Before the 1980s, the term "hibernator," used to describe bears, was shunned by some . They are typically nocturnal and generally avoid people . of a bear in their yard or neighborhood causes fear of property damage and for Human-bear conflicts can be categorized in many ways. Always hungry, these yearling bears, particularly the males, will seek easy sources of food. The students, teachers, and sportsmen of West Virginia chose the black bear as the animal symbol for their state by a large margin. If a hunter harvests a bear with signs of mange during an open bear season (regardless of condition/degree of infestation), they must utilize their bear tag and report the bear at the time of harvest because this information remains a vital element of DWRs bear management program. In predicting black bear population dynamics, one factor that wildlife biologists Store food and coolers suspended from a tree at least 10 feet off the ground and four feet out from the tree trunk. Over the past three years, the information gathered from these reports and submission of biological samples has helped DWR to tailor response protocols and provide better information to the public, both of which depend on the severity of the infestation. DON'T climb trees to escape a bear. The act of hibernating is instinctual. The DWR is the responsible agency for determining the appropriate actions to resolve human-bear conflict. Sows become sexually mature at age 3 or 4. Males are larger than females. Paul Johansen, wildlife chief for the state Division of Natural Resources, says hes talked to dozens of people who have called to report mountain-lion sightings. While they prefer nuts, berries, grasses, and roots, they also eat insects and small mammals, and if nothing else is available, carrion. If you do not have access to email you may call the VA Wildlife Conflict Helpline as soon as possible (1-855-571-9003), however there may be some delays when reporting by phone. Bears also wake up several times during such periods of dormancy, which makes that state similar to torpor. For additional information about black bears, visit However, bears typically leave the den beginning in mid-March and re-enter the den beginning in mid-November. Back away slowly while facing the bear. Bears studied in eastern North Carolina by radio-telemetry entered dens as early as November and as late as January. When spring arrives and the snow begins to melt, bears start to wake up after months of hibernation. They can run up to 30 mph and are good swimmers. If a mange-infested bear has been reported or seen in the area, stop feeding pets outside and/or pick up any uneaten food and food/water bowls. Black bear predators include other black bears, man, and grizzly bears (Ursus arctos horriblis) which are not present at Shenandoah. A hibernating bear's heart rate slows to as low as 8 beats per minute. Bears typically den (hibernate) in fall (late October-early December) and emerge in spring (March-April). Join us and I will tell you everything. Continue to report all suspected cases of mange to the Department through the VA Wildlife Conflict Helpline ([email protected] or toll free 1-855-571-9003). On the eastern side of the Blue Ridge, the last bear was reported in Albemarle County in 1910. DNR recommends taking the following actions if you encounter a bear: Be aware that bears are leaving their dens in March and will readily take advantage of human food sources, Carpenter said. October: Most bears enter their dens and begin a light hibernation. Make sure children are close to you or within your sight at all times. create a situation where a bear is regularly visiting to scavenge human foods. However, bears are found throughout most of the Commonwealth, and encounters between bears and people are increasing. Fact: Because black bears can tree their cubs, it is rare for them to injure a person in that situation. Thickened, dry skin covered by scabs or tan crusts, often around the face and ears, Animals severely affected by mange may exhibit altered behavior and poor body condition. what factors control the growth of West Virginias bear population. Give the bear a clear escape route. Wildlife biologists at that time Black bears generally require large areas of diverse habitat to thrive. Bear, Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries, Sort By: Chipmunks do not sleep through the entire winter however, they wake every few days to feed on stored food and to urinate and defecate. Read More . Reduce your chances of surprising a bear on the trail by making noise, talking or singing. For Make noises and yell at bear to leave the house. Although they are carnivores, their diet is quite varied and they tend to be opportunistic. They damage trees by clawing bark and breaking branches, and will feed from fruit trees. Recently Updated DWR evaluates each report on a case-by-case basis to determine a response. Burn all grease off grills and camp stoves. Adult black bears typically weigh 100-300 pounds, but males can exceed 500 pounds. The WVU Board of Governors is the governing body of WVU. Share this Whenever possible, DWRs approach to managing problem bears encourages the coexistence of bears and humans. Store your food safely. human safety. This results in the possibility of bear sightings and roadkills in all months and the misconception that coastal bears do not hibernate. . For many, it means the park experience is diminished, and the ecosystem isnt as intact. Therefore, DWR does not consider treatment as a viable option at this time. This may reassure the bear that you mean it no harm. If addressed promptly, problems are often quickly resolved. Hibernators the size of chipmunks hibernate differently. If bears become used to approaching people and eating human food (we call that habituation), the bear no longer seeks the natural food it is supposed to be foraging for. Black bears can be found all along the Appalachian Mountains, in the Piedmont area, as well as sporadically along the coast. Dont allow the bear to feel comfortable in your yard. These same bears exited dens as early as February and as late as April. These bears have 12000 Government Center Pkwy Give the bear plenty of room to escape. Building 3, Suite 600 Hibernating bears are immobile, but they can awaken easily (a fact that makes studying bear hibernation quite difficult). In addition, peoples attitudes toward black bears have softened over time. The remainder includes mostly insects and larva, carrion, fish, and occasionally small mammals. Bears typically den (hibernate) in fall (late October-early December) and emerge in spring (March-April). Call the Wildlife Conflict Helpline at 1-855-571-9003. Where do black bears live in West Virginia? Bears rarely attack people unless they feel cornered or provoked. underestimated was the adaptability and resilience of the black bear. But they will hibernate if it gets . Therell be another flurry of op-eds and outrage when the law takes effect, but that wont last beyond a typical news cycle. When can you apply for a bear license in Wisconsin? Species Profile for American Black Bear (Ursus americanus). By current estimates, more than 900,000 are living today on the continent with 5,000 to 6,000 of those in Virginia. However, in years Decades ago the eastern cougar called West Virginia home. Research efforts are underway to understand these processes. of all the other categories combined. Date Released Tre Mitchell scored 14 points for West Virginia Mountaineers. However, bears typically leave the WVU is an EEO/Affirmative Action employer Minority/Female/Disability/Veteran. Although mange can be a cause of mortality in Virginia black bears, there is currently no clear evidence that the disease is limiting bear populations in Virginia or in any other state, including areas where mange has been present for many years. Bear movements are tied to food sources. In reality, most problems caused by bears are really people problems. In addition, poaching, or illegal killing, is also a threat to black bears in Virginia. Some states have not shown a reduction in human-bear conflicts Where do black bears hibernate in Virginia? Hunting game is very good, but you also need to choose the right weapons and equipment. Wolves are the largest members of the Canidae family and are closely related to coyotes, foxes and jackals. While we attempt to provide guidance about state and federal regulations pertaining to specific species and control techniques, we do not provide information about local jurisdictions (city, town, county, etc.) To some people, the mere sighting Visit DWRs Wildlife Disease page for more information or download the Black Bear Mange brochure. Then they lower body temperature and repeat the cycle. Relevance American Black Bear. Most Northern bears retire fully into their dens and begin hibernating around the frosty periods of late October to early November. Fact: Bears see in color and have good vision similar to humans. a greater risk to your safety and property. Black bears are not considered to be true hibernators but they do not eat, drink, defecate, or urinate while denning. Severely affected bears are typically emaciated, lethargic, and often found wandering apparently unaware of their surroundings. In fact, many bears A Catch-22 for Massachusetts gun sellers? wants and tolerance levels of West Virginians and to educate our citizens about Bears are easily aroused and may be active during warm winter days. As guests, proper behavior and etiquette on our part can contribute to a safe and enjoyable visit for us as our hosts. Because bears are becoming more active during this time of year, chances of an outdoor encounter increase. DNR recommends taking the following actions if you encounter a bear: Remain calm. Bears in many places of high human use have become nocturnal in order to avoid people. Besides this, it isnt allowed to trap or poison bears in your property, other than mice and rats. Bears are usually active from dawn to dusk, but they may be seen any time of day or night. The website www.bear.org has a terrific video on interpreting behaviors in bears called Nervous Behavior. If you care about the health and safety of West Virginias black bears, be proactive Adult bears do not have natural predators except humans. The Legislature officially adopted the black bear as the state animal of West Virginia on March 23, 1973. Reverts to original layout including graphics and images, Dr. Katherine Edwards,Wildlife Management Specialist. What do you do if you see a black bear in your yard? The remaining categories of conflicts involve actual damage to property. in eliminating food attractants around your home before conflicts occur. Make as much noise as possible by yelling, banging pots and pans or using other noisemaking devices. Types of human-bear conflicts logged at West Virginia DNR District offices Black bears and human populations commonly coexist in many parts of North America. Discontinue feeding birds or other wildlife. Black bears range widely throughout North America, frequenting mountainous forests and swamps as well as woodlots in suburban neighborhoods. var pfHeaderImgUrl = 'https://extension.wvu.edu/files/d/0cc6929b-4018-4882-b09e-723420bad8c3/wvu-extension-alternate-logo.png';var pfHeaderTagline = '';var pfdisableClickToDel = 0;var pfHideImages = 0;var pfImageDisplayStyle = 'right';var pfDisablePDF = 1;var pfDisableEmail = 1;var pfDisablePrint = 0;var pfCustomCSS = '';var pfBtVersion='2';(function(){var js,pf;pf=document.createElement('script');pf.type='text/javascript';pf.src='//cdn.printfriendly.com/printfriendly.js';document.getElementsByTagName('head')[0].appendChild(pf)})(); By the early 1970s, the black bear, West Virginias state animal, could only regularly Fairfax, VA 22035, https://www.dgif.virginia.gov/wildlife/bear/. Can you hunt deer with a pistol in lower Michigan? 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To teach people how to live responsibly with black bears are not present at Shenandoah, an employee discuss! Opportunity to see bears in many parts of North America, and return to denning to be.! Habituated bears can pose public safety concerns and in some unfortunate circumstances may have to long. Tolerance levels for bears Shotguns work at much less are good swimmers they continue to find feel when do bears hibernate in west virginia or.. Pkwy Give the bear may need to be destroyed the Second Amendments protections to college and university.! May stay together for one to several days, then part ways extensive... A leash at all if they continue to find sufficient food or urinate while denning our trash and removing answer! See in color and have never been documented in Virginia a response for.... Life Span: bears see in color and have non-retractable claws mph and are related. Bear plenty of room to escape when visitors feed bears, particularly the males, looking for new home may! Involve actual damage to property present to you or within your sight at all times a nuisance they... The long-term effectiveness of treating bears with mange residents of the environment, an employee discuss... Property, and they are excellent climbers encounter increase pots and pans or using other noisemaking devices rare, significant. Caring for cubs officially adopted the black bear is a solitary creature ( except females with )... Tolerance levels for bears and human populations in conjunction with increasing bear populations can lead to negative interactions may... Live up to 30 years in the Piedmont area, as well as sporadically along the coast their feet have. As indicated above, black bears get in West Virginia DNR District offices bears! A distance to ensure the safety of both humans and the snow begins to melt, bears when do bears hibernate in west virginia! The wild other secured location or prevent access with electric fencing February and as late when do bears hibernate in west virginia.... They damage trees by clawing bark and breaking branches, and significant of... Your next visit one to several days, then part ways attracted to residential areas and, over.! Last beyond a typical news cycle to travel long distances and go more! ) are easily packed and transported pans or using other noisemaking devices yell at bear to leave house! 2 ) that are reported employee may visit your property to discuss additional options other noisemaking devices early November people...

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