Cougar: History, Facts, Size, Habitat, Classification & Much More

By Tyler Swan

Animals are fascinating creatures that come in all shapes and sizes. One particular animal that captures the imagination is the cougar. Also known as the mountain lion or puma, the cougar is native to the Americas and holds a significant place in the animal kingdom. In this blog post, we will delve into the history, facts, size, habitat, and classification of this majestic creature.

The cougar has a long and rich history, dating back thousands of years. Native American cultures revered this animal, often considering it a symbol of power and strength. Today, cougars can be found in various regions across North and South America, adapting to a wide range of habitats, including forests, mountains, and even deserts. These solitary creatures require vast territories to roam and hunt, often preferring areas with dense vegetation to help them conceal their presence.

When it comes to size, the cougar is one of the largest cats in the Americas. Males can reach lengths of up to 8 feet, including a long tail that aids in balance while climbing or jumping. These remarkable felines are known for their agility and stealth, making them exceptional hunters. Their diet primarily consists of deer, though they are capable of taking down smaller animals as well.

In terms of classification, the cougar belongs to the family Felidae, making it a relative of other big cats such as lions, tigers, and cheetahs. However, what sets the cougar apart is its ability to adapt and thrive in various environments. With its impressive history, unique facts, remarkable size, and adaptable habitat, the cougar is truly a fascinating animal that deserves our admiration and respect.

Please note that our blog already contains an extensive article featuring information on over 155 different animal species. Happy exploring!

History of Cougar

The cougar, also known as a mountain lion or puma, has a long and fascinating history. These majestic creatures have roamed the Americas for thousands of years. Native Americans viewed them with great respect and often incorporated them into their folklore and mythology. The European settlers later encountered cougars, and their encounters had a significant impact on the history of these animals.

Before European settlers arrived, the Native Americans lived in harmony with cougars. They recognized the cougar’s strength, agility, and stealth, considering it a sacred and powerful animal. Many tribes believed that cougars possessed spiritual qualities and were associated with bravery and leadership. Cougars appeared in their stories and legends, symbolizing courage and wisdom.

When European settlers arrived in the Americas, they brought changes that affected cougars. As they expanded their settlements, the settlers began clearing forests to make way for their farms. This led to a decline in the cougar’s natural habitat, forcing them to adapt by seeking food and shelter closer to human settlements. Unfortunately, this led to conflicts between humans and cougars, as the settlers perceived them as a threat to their livestock.

As time went on, the cougar population faced further challenges. As human settlements expanded, hunting increased, and deforestation continued, causing a significant decline in the cougar population. These factors resulted in the listing of cougars as endangered species in some regions, leading to conservation efforts to protect and preserve their population.

The history of cougars is a testament to the interconnectedness between humans and wildlife. It reminds us of our responsibility to protect and coexist with these magnificent creatures. By learning from history and working together, we can ensure a brighter future for cougars and other endangered species.

Importance of Cougar

The cougar animal is very important for maintaining the balance in nature. It helps to control the population of other animals, such as deer, which can sometimes become too numerous. When there are too many deer, they eat too much vegetation, which can harm the ecosystem. The cougar, by preying on deer, helps to keep their numbers in check and prevents overgrazing.

Additionally, the cougar is a top predator, which means it is at the top of the food chain. This is crucial because it helps to control the populations of other animals below it in the food chain. If the cougar were to disappear, the animals it preys upon would multiply, and this could have a negative impact on certain plant species and disrupt the overall balance of nature.

Moreover, the cougar plays an essential role in maintaining biodiversity. Biodiversity refers to the variety of different plant and animal species in an ecosystem. As a top predator, the cougar helps to keep the ecosystem healthy by preventing the dominance of any one species. By regulating the populations of other animals, the cougar allows different species to coexist and thrive in their natural habitats.

In conclusion, the cougar is a vital animal for our ecosystem. It helps to control the population of certain animals, such as deer, preventing overgrazing and maintaining a balanced environment. As a top predator, the cougar also regulates the populations of other species, ensuring biodiversity and the overall health of the ecosystem.

Amazing Facts About Cougar

1. The cougar, also known as the mountain lion or puma, is a large wild cat native to the Americas.
2. Cougars are solitary animals, meaning they prefer to live and hunt alone rather than in groups.
3. These big cats have a muscular build and can reach a length of up to 8 feet, with males being larger than females.
4. Cougars are excellent hunters and primarily prey on deer, but they can also consume smaller animals like rabbits and rodents.
5. Unlike other big cats, cougars cannot roar. Instead, they produce a variety of vocalizations including screams, growls, and purrs.
6. These remarkable animals have a flexible spine, which allows them to leap up to 20 feet in a single jump and reach speeds up to 50 miles per hour.
7. Cougars have a keen sense of sight and hearing, which aids them in detecting prey from a distance even in low light conditions.
8. Their fur is typically tan or gray and provides excellent camouflage in their natural habitat, helping them to blend into the surroundings.
9. Cougars are territorial creatures and mark their territories using scent markings and clawing trees to establish their presence.
10. These big cats have a lifespan of around 8-13 years in the wild, but they can live up to 20 years in captivity.
11. Cougars have a low reproductive rate, with females typically giving birth to 1-6 cubs, which are born blind and rely on their mother for several months.
12. The cubs usually stay with their mother until they are around 1-2 years old, after which they venture out to establish their own territories.
13. Overhunting and habitat loss have led to a decline in cougar populations, resulting in their classification as a near-threatened species.
14. Despite being powerful predators, cougars generally avoid confrontations with humans and prefer to retreat if they sense human presence.
15. Cougars play a crucial role in ecosystems as top-level predators, helping to maintain a healthy balance by managing prey populations and controlling the spread of disease.

Can we keep Cougar as our Pet?

Cougar animals, also known as mountain lions, are fascinating creatures often found in North and South America. However, it is not suitable or ethical to keep them as pets. These majestic animals belong in the wild and have specific needs that cannot be fulfilled in a domestic setting.

Firstly, cougars are wild animals that require large territories to roam and hunt. They possess natural instincts and behaviors that cannot be suppressed or accommodated in a home environment. Attempting to keep a cougar as a pet would deprive them of their natural habitat, resulting in immense stress and frustration for the animal.

Secondly, it is important to mention that cougars are not extinct, although their populations have been decreasing. Due to factors such as habitat loss and hunting, their numbers have declined significantly in certain regions. It is crucial to protect and conserve their habitats to prevent their extinction. If we were to consider keeping cougars as pets, it would only exacerbate this problem by encouraging illegal poaching and capturing of these magnificent creatures from the wild.

In conclusion, it is not suitable or ethical to keep cougar animals as pets. They belong in the wild, where they can freely roam and exhibit their natural behaviors. Moreover, it is crucial to raise awareness about preserving their natural habitats and conserving their populations to ensure their survival in the future.

Size of Cougar

The cougar, also known as the mountain lion or puma, is a large wild cat that is quite big in size. It has a long, muscular body and a round head. On average, cougars can grow up to 6 to 8 feet long from the tip of their nose to the end of their tail. That’s almost as long as a small car! They can also weigh between 100 to 200 pounds, which is heavier than two grown-up humans combined!

The size of cougars can vary depending on their gender and where they live. Male cougars are generally larger than females, with longer and heavier bodies. In North America, where they are most commonly found, cougars tend to be larger than their relatives in South America. This is because they have more prey available to eat, allowing them to grow bigger and stronger.

The impressive size of cougars is one of the reasons why they are such skilled hunters. Their large bodies give them the strength and agility needed to take down prey much larger than themselves, such as deer or elk. Cougars are solitary animals, which means they prefer to hunt alone. Their size allows them to silently sneak up on their prey and make a quick, deadly pounce.

In conclusion, the cougar is a large and powerful wild cat. With their long bodies and impressive size, cougars are formidable hunters in the animal kingdom. They have adapted to be excellent solitary predators, using their size and strength to successfully catch their prey.

Habitat of Cougar

The cougar, also known as the mountain lion, is a fascinating wild animal that can be found in a variety of habitats across North and South America. These impressive creatures have adapted to live in different environments, such as forests, mountains, and deserts. They are highly adaptable animals, which means they can survive and thrive in different kinds of places.

One of the preferred habitats of cougars is dense forests. These areas provide them with plenty of cover and concealment, allowing them to sneak up on their prey without being noticed. Forests also offer a wide range of prey species, such as deer, elk, and small mammals, which the cougars can hunt for food. These mighty cats have exceptional agility and can climb trees if needed, which proves advantageous in forested areas.

Furthermore, cougars can also be found in mountainous regions. These areas provide them with a great vantage point to spot potential prey from above. Their strong hind legs enable them to leap long distances, making it easier for them to ambush unsuspecting animals. Mountainous habitats also offer an abundance of rocky crevices and caves that cougars can use as dens for resting or raising their young.

Lastly, cougars can adapt to living in arid deserts. While they are primarily associated with forests and mountains, these adaptable creatures can still survive and hunt in desert environments. Here, their main prey consists of smaller animals like rodents and rabbits. Their sandy colored fur helps them blend in with the desert landscape and remain hidden from potential threats.

In summary, cougars are versatile animals that can adapt to various types of habitats. Whether it’s the dense forests, lofty mountains, or arid deserts, cougars have the skills and abilities to thrive in these environments. Their adaptability makes them one of the most successful predators in the Americas.

Evolution of Cougar

The cougar, a fearsome and majestic creature, has undergone a remarkable evolution over millions of years. Its ancestors first appeared about 8 million years ago as small cats known as Puma pardoides. These early cougars roamed North America and eventually migrated to South America.

As time passed, cougars began to grow in size. About 500,000 years ago, a subspecies known as Puma concolor arrived in North America. These cougars were larger and more powerful than their ancestors. They adapted to different environments, from the dense forests to the open prairies and mountains. Their keen senses, such as sharp eyesight and hearing, made them skillful hunters.

The most significant change in cougar evolution occurred during the last Ice Age, around 12,000 years ago. As many large mammals became extinct, cougars faced challenges to their survival. To cope, they developed longer legs and a more slender body shape, allowing them to chase faster prey over great distances. This adaptation enabled them to become efficient runners, reaching incredible speeds of up to 50 miles per hour.

In conclusion, the evolution of the cougar is a tale of adaptation and survival. From their humble beginnings as small cats to their current status as skilled and powerful hunters, cougars have come a long way. Their remarkable changes in size, senses, and physical structure allowed them to thrive and spread throughout the Americas. Today, the cougar stands as a testament to the wonders of evolution and the marvels of the natural world.

Classification of Cougar

The cougar, also known as the mountain lion, is a fascinating animal that belongs to the cat family. It is native to the Americas and can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, mountains, and deserts. Cougars are solitary creatures, meaning that they prefer to live alone rather than in groups.

Cougars are classified as mammals because they give birth to live young and nurse them with milk. They are known for their excellent hunting skills. Cougars primarily prey on deer, but they are also capable of hunting smaller animals such as rabbits and rodents. Unlike other big cats, cougars do not roar. Instead, they produce a variety of sounds, including purrs, growls, and hisses to communicate with other cougars.

Cougars are classified as carnivores because their diet consists mainly of meat. They have sharp teeth and strong jaws that allow them to effectively capture and kill their prey. Cougars are also highly adaptable animals and can survive in many different environments. They are excellent climbers and swimmers, which gives them an advantage when hunting or escaping from danger.

In conclusion, cougars are remarkable animals that belong to the cat family. They are classified as mammals and carnivores due to their reproductive abilities and diet. Cougars are solitary hunters and are known for their agility and adaptability. Their unique characteristics make them one of the most fascinating creatures in the animal kingdom.

Different Types of Cougar

1. American Cougar: Also known as the mountain lion, this cougar is the most widely recognized type. It is native to North America, and its powerful body and strong hunting skills make it a skilled predator in its habitat.

2. Canadian Cougar: Found across Canada, this subspecies of cougar is adapted to survive in colder climates. It has a thick fur coat that helps to keep it warm and withstand harsh winter conditions.

3. Florida Panther: Endemic to the southern tip of Florida, this cougar subspecies is critically endangered and one of the rarest big cats in the world. Efforts are being made to protect and increase its population.

4. Argentine Cougar: Native to South America, particularly Argentina, this cougar species is known for its ability to adapt to various habitats, from dense forests to open grasslands. It is a solitary and secretive animal rarely seen by humans.

5. Brazilian Cougar: Found in Brazil and neighboring countries, this cougar species is known for its endurance and agility. It is an excellent jumper and can cover long distances in search of prey such as deer or small mammals.

6. Chilean Puma: This species of cougar is found in Chile and is known for its diverse diet, which includes guanacos, rodents, and even penguins. It has a slim body and long tail, helping it to maintain balance while hunting or moving through its habitat.

7. Mexican Cougar: Native to Mexico, this cougar subspecies is characterized by a lighter fur coloration compared to others, which gives it better camouflage in its desert and scrubland environments. It has sharp retractable claws and a strong jaw for hunting and taking down prey.

8. Costa Rican Cougar: Inhabiting Costa Rica and surrounding areas, this cougar species is known for its adaptability to a variety of ecosystems, from tropical jungles to cloud forests. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance within its range.

9. Nicaraguan Cougar: Found in Nicaragua and parts of Central America, this cougar subspecies is skilled at climbing trees, often using them as resting spots or vantage points to observe its surroundings. It preys on both terrestrial and arboreal animals.

10. Peruvian Cougar: Native to Peru, this cougar species thrives in the country’s diverse landscapes, including mountains, rainforests, and the arid coastal deserts. It has a robust build and possesses strong jaws and teeth that aid in capturing and overpowering its prey.

These 10 types of cougar animals demonstrate the remarkable adaptability of cougars to various habitats around the world. Their unique physical characteristics and hunting abilities make them well-suited to their respective environments, ensuring their survival in their natural habitats.

Geographical Presence of Cougar

The magnificent cougar, also known as the mountain lion, can be found in North and South America. This majestic creature is native to the region, where it roams and hunts in various habitats such as forests, grasslands, and mountains. Cougars are often spotted in countries like the United States, Canada, Mexico, as well as some parts of Central and South America. These regions provide the perfect environment for them to thrive, as they require vast areas to roam and a sufficient prey population to sustain their diet.

However, cougars are not found in certain parts of the world, such as Europe, Africa, and Asia. These regions have different species of big cats, such as lions, leopards, and tigers, which are not the same as cougars. The Cougar’s absence in these regions can be attributed to various factors, including geographical barriers, lack of suitable habitat, and competition with other predators.

In conclusion, the cougar is found in the Americas, specifically North and South America, where it inhabits diverse landscapes such as forests, grasslands, and mountains. However, this magnificent creature does not exist in regions like Europe, Africa, and Asia. Instead, these regions are home to other unique species of big cats.

Scientific Name of Cougar

The scientific name of the cougar animal is Puma concolor. It belongs to the Felidae family, which includes other big cats like lions, tigers, and leopards. The cougar is sometimes also known as the mountain lion or puma.

The cougar is native to the Americas and has a wide range that stretches from Canada to Argentina. It is a solitary and stealthy hunter, known for its ability to silently stalk and ambush its prey. Cougars are primarily carnivorous, meaning they mainly eat meat, and their diet consists mainly of deer, small mammals, and sometimes even livestock.

This magnificent wild cat is characterized by its muscular build, round head, and long tail. Cougars have a tawny or brownish coat, which helps them blend in with their surroundings and remain camouflaged while hunting. They are highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of habitats, from forests and mountains to deserts and swamps.

In conclusion, Puma concolor, commonly known as the cougar, is a beautiful and powerful big cat found in the Americas. It is an expert hunter and has adapted to various environments. Its scientific name, Puma concolor, reflects its unique characteristics and distinguishes it from other species in the Felidae family.

Diet of Cougar

The cougar is a mighty animal that feeds on a variety of prey. It mainly hunts deer, but it also eats small mammals like rabbits and rodents. Sometimes, it even eats birds or insects! This makes the cougar quite flexible when it comes to finding food.

In order to catch its prey, the cougar relies on its incredible speed and agility. It can run really fast for short distances, which helps it sneak up on deer that are grazing or resting. Once it gets close enough, it pounces on the deer and delivers a powerful bite to the neck, suffocating its prey. It then drags the deer to a safe place to eat.

What’s interesting is that the cougar doesn’t eat everything it catches in one go. Instead, it feeds on the prey for a while, and then covers it with leaves and dirt to keep it hidden from other predators. This way, the cougar can come back later and have another meal! It’s like having a secret storage of food.

In conclusion, the cougar has a diverse diet that includes deer, small mammals, birds, and insects. It uses its speed and agility to catch its prey, and it even saves some of it for later. The cougar’s diet helps it survive and thrive in its natural habitat.

Locomotion of Cougar

Cougar animals move in a unique and fascinating way. Their powerful build and strong muscles enable them to be swift and agile. When a cougar walks, it places its hind foot in the same spot where its front foot was just a moment ago. This helps them move silently and makes it difficult for other animals to detect their presence.

Cougar animals are also excellent jumpers. They can leap distances of up to 30 feet (9 meters) in a single bound! This ability allows them to pounce on their prey from great distances. Cougars are known for their impressive speed as well. They can run as fast as 50 miles per hour (80 kilometers per hour) when chasing their dinner. Their flexible spine and long legs help them to accelerate quickly and navigate through rough terrain with ease. Overall, the locomotion of a cougar is truly remarkable, making them powerful predators in the animal kingdom.

Social and Sexual Behaviour of Cougar

Cougars are fascinating animals, known for their unique social and sexual behaviors. In the wild, cougars are solitary creatures, meaning they prefer to live alone rather than in groups. This is because they require a large territory to hunt and roam freely. By living alone, cougars can avoid conflict over resources such as food and mating partners.

When it comes to their sexual behavior, male cougars are quite different from females. Males are polygamous, which means they mate with multiple females. They mark their territories with urine to attract females, creating an invisible boundary that signals their availability for mating. On the other hand, females are generally monogamous, meaning they have only one mate during the breeding season.

During the mating process, cougars engage in various behaviors to attract a partner. Males use vocalizations, such as screams and rumbles, to communicate with females. They may also engage in courtship rituals, such as rubbing their cheeks against trees to leave their scent behind. Once a pair has mated, they may separate and go their separate ways until the next breeding season.

In essence, cougars prefer to lead solitary lives, and their sexual behaviors differ between males and females. While male cougars are polygamous and mark their territories to attract females, females tend to be monogamous and engage in courtship behavior. These unique behaviors help ensure the survival and continuation of cougar populations in the wild.

Reproduction and Lifecycle of Cougar

The life cycle of a cougar begins with their birth. Cougars are born in litters of up to six cubs, but usually only two to three survive. The mother cougar, also known as a mountain lion, takes care of her cubs for about 18 to 24 months. During this time, she teaches them important skills like hunting and how to be independent. Cubs start eating solid food when they are about two months old, but they still rely on their mother’s milk for most of their nutrition.

As the cubs grow older, they become more self-reliant and start venturing out on their own. Some will stay close to their mother, while others will roam farther away to establish their own territories. Cougars usually reach sexual maturity at around two to three years old. This means they are ready to have their own offspring.

Once the cougars are mature, they will start looking for a mate. Mating can happen throughout the year, but it is more common during the winter and spring months. After mating, a female cougar will have a gestation period of about 90 to 96 days before giving birth to a new litter of cubs. The cycle then repeats itself as the new cougar cubs grow up and continue the cycle of life.

Threats to Cougar

Cougar is a majestic creature that roams the forests and mountains of North and South America. However, cougars are facing several threats which are impacting their survival. One major threat to cougars is habitat loss. As humans expand their cities and towns, they destroy the natural areas where cougars live. This means less space for cougars to hunt, find shelter, and raise their young.

Another threat to cougar populations is hunting. Some people hunt cougars for sport, which greatly reduces their numbers. This is especially true in areas where hunting regulations are not strictly enforced. When cougars are targeted by hunters, it disrupts the delicate balance of the ecosystem they live in. Cougars play an important role in controlling the population of deer and other prey animals, so their decline can have negative consequences for the whole ecosystem.

Lastly, conflicts with humans pose a threat to cougars. As humans build houses closer to cougar territories, the chances of encounters and conflicts increase. Cougars may attack livestock or pets, leading to conflicts between cougar and human interests. To protect themselves and their animals, some humans resort to killing cougars. This further escalates the conflict and puts the cougar population at risk.

In order to ensure the survival of cougars, it is important for us to take action. Measures such as creating protected areas for cougars and preserving their natural habitats can help to mitigate the threats of habitat loss. Strictly enforcing hunting regulations and promoting non-lethal methods of resolving conflicts can also aid in their conservation. Education and awareness programs can teach people about the importance of cougars and the harm caused by their targeting. By addressing these threats and working towards coexistence, we can ensure a future where cougars thrive in the wild.

Population of Cougar

The population of cougar animals, also known as mountain lions or pumas, is estimated to be around 30,000 individuals in North and South America. These sleek and powerful predators can be found in various habitats, including forests, mountains, and deserts. However, due to habitat loss and hunting, their numbers have declined in some regions.

Unfortunately, some subspecies of cougars have already gone extinct. For example, the eastern cougar, once found in the eastern part of North America, is believed to be extinct. Its disappearance is mainly attributed to the destruction of its habitat and the extensive hunting it faced.

The extinction of any species is a sad event. It disrupts the balance of nature and can have negative impacts on the ecosystem. It is crucial to protect and conserve the remaining cougar population and their habitats to prevent further decline and potential extinction. Efforts such as establishing protected areas, promoting sustainable land use practices, and raising awareness about the importance of these magnificent animals can contribute to their survival and ensure a healthy and diverse planet.

Conclusion

In the wild and mysterious world of animals, the cougar stands as one of the most fascinating creatures. Also known as the mountain lion or puma, this majestic animal has a rich history and many intriguing facts. Cougars are known for their large size, impressive habitat range, and unique classification within the animal kingdom.

Cougars have roamed the vast lands of North and South America for thousands of years. They have been admired and feared by humans due to their stealthy nature and striking appearance. These solitary animals are experts at blending into their surroundings, thanks to their adaptability and powerful limbs. With a muscular build and a weight that can range from 100 to 200 pounds, cougars are truly a force to be reckoned with in the animal kingdom.

Found in a variety of habitats across the Americas, cougars can adapt to different climates and terrains. From dense forests to deserts, these resilient creatures have thrived in the wild for centuries. They are adept climbers, hunters, and swimmers, providing them with the necessary skills to survive in a wide range of environments.

In conclusion, the cougar, also known as the mountain lion or puma, is a remarkable animal with a captivating history and unique characteristics. Its large size, adaptable habitat, and distinct classification make it stand out among other animals. As we continue to learn more about cougars and appreciate their place in the natural world, we gain a deeper understanding of the diversity and beauty of the animal kingdom.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cougar (FAQ’s)

Q: What is a cougar?
A: A cougar is a large wild cat native to the Americas.

Q: What is the scientific name for a cougar?
A: The scientific name for a cougar is Puma concolor.

Q: What is the size of an average cougar?
A: An average cougar can measure up to 7.5 to 9 feet in length, including their long tail.

Q: What is the lifespan of a cougar?
A: Cougars typically live for around 10 to 12 years in the wild, but some have been known to reach 20 years in captivity.

Q: Where do cougars live?
A: Cougars can be found in a variety of habitats across North and South America, ranging from forests to swamps.

Q: What do cougars eat?
A: Cougars are carnivores and primarily feed on deer, but they can also prey on smaller animals like rabbits and rodents.

Q: Do cougars only hunt alone?
A: Yes, cougars are solitary creatures and usually hunt alone.

Q: Are cougars endangered?
A: Cougars are not currently listed as endangered, but some subspecies are considered at risk due to habitat loss and hunting.

Q: Can cougars climb trees?
A: Yes, cougars are excellent climbers and can easily scale trees to escape or ambush their prey.

Q: Are cougars dangerous to humans?
A: While cougars generally avoid humans, there have been rare instances of cougar attacks on humans, particularly if they feel threatened.

Q: Are cougars related to domestic cats?
A: Yes, cougars are part of the same family (Felidae) as domestic cats but belong to a different genus.

Q: How fast can a cougar run?
A: Cougars are incredibly agile and can reach speeds of up to 40 to 50 miles per hour in short bursts.

Q: Do cougars have any natural predators?
A: Cougars are apex predators, meaning they have no natural predators except for humans.

Q: How many cubs does a cougar typically have?
A: A female cougar usually gives birth to a litter of 2 to 3 cubs, which stay with their mother for up to two years.

Q: Can cougars swim?
A: Yes, cougars are good swimmers and can cross rivers or bodies of water when necessary.

Q: Are cougars considered to be good hunters?
A: Cougars are skilled hunters, known for their stealth and ability to silently stalk their prey before pouncing on them.

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