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

By Morgan Gutierrez

This blog post will explore the wonderful world of the Springbok – an animal that you might have heard of but may not know much about. We will delve into its history, share interesting facts, talk about its size and habitat, and also discuss its classification in the animal kingdom. So, let’s jump right in!

The Springbok is a unique and fascinating species native to the African continent. These graceful animals have been a part of African history for centuries and hold cultural significance in many indigenous communities. They are also known for their incredible speed and agility, making them a delight to watch in their natural habitat.

In terms of size, Springboks are relatively small, standing at around 60-75 centimeters at the shoulder and weighing between 27 to 42 kilograms. Their bodies are well-adapted to survive in their arid habitats, which commonly include the grasslands, savannahs, and semi-desert areas of southern Africa.

When it comes to classification, Springboks fall under the category of mammals. More specifically, they belong to the Bovidae family, which includes other hoofed animals such as antelopes, goats, and sheep. They are herbivores, meaning they primarily feed on grass and plants.

In this blog post, we aim to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the Springbok and its various aspects. Whether you are a nature enthusiast or simply curious about the animal kingdom, join us on this exciting journey. And remember, if you want to learn more about different animals, we already have an article featuring over 155 animal names. Now, let’s dive into the marvelous world of the Springbok!

History of Springbok

The springbok is a fascinating creature with a long history. These agile antelopes can be found in the grassy plains and savannas of southern Africa. They are well-known for their impressive leaping ability, which allows them to effortlessly jump up to 13 feet in the air and cover great distances.

Throughout history, the springbok has played a significant role in the culture and traditions of the region. The indigenous people, such as the San and Khoikhoi communities, revered these animals and incorporated them into their daily lives. They valued the springbok for its meat, hide, and horns, which were used for food, clothing, and tools, respectively.

In the 17th and 18th centuries, the springbok caught the attention of European explorers and settlers. They were amazed by the springbok’s spectacular leaps and began hunting them for sport. Unfortunately, this led to a decline in the springbok population, as excessive hunting disrupted their natural habitat and breeding patterns.

Fortunately, efforts were made to protect these iconic animals. In the early 20th century, conservationists recognized the need to safeguard the springbok from extinction. Several protected areas, such as national parks and game reserves, were established to provide a safe haven for the springbok and other wildlife. Today, the springbok population has stabilized, and they are proudly considered a national symbol of South Africa.

Overall, the history of the springbok is one of resilience and adaptation. From being an integral part of indigenous cultures to surviving the threats posed by humans, these graceful creatures continue to thrive in the wild. They serve as a reminder of the importance of conserving and respecting our natural heritage for future generations to appreciate.

Importance of Springbok

The Springbok animal is very important in many ways. One reason is because it is the national animal of South Africa. This means that it represents the pride and identity of the country. People in South Africa love the Springbok and it is even featured on their national rugby team’s jersey. It is a symbol of unity and strength for the people of South Africa.

Another reason the Springbok is important is because it plays a role in the ecosystem. The Springbok helps to maintain the balance in the environment by grazing on grass and plants. By doing this, it helps to control the vegetation and prevent overgrowth. This is important because if there is too much vegetation, other animals and plants may not be able to survive. The Springbok makes sure that there is enough food for everyone.

Lastly, the Springbok is important for tourism. Many tourists visit South Africa to see these beautiful animals in their natural habitat. It brings in money for the country and helps to support local communities. People from all over the world come to see the Springbok, and this helps to promote South Africa as a tourist destination. The Springbok is truly a treasure for the country and plays a significant role in its culture, environment, and economy.

Amazing Facts About Springbok

1) Springboks are small to medium-sized antelopes that are native to the southwestern parts of Africa.
2) These animals have a distinctive appearance, with a light brown to reddish-brown coat on their backs and sides, along with a white underside.
3) Springboks are known for their impressive leaping ability and can jump up to 13 feet in the air, reaching distances of up to 65 feet.
4) Males are larger than females and have long, twisted horns that can reach up to 20 inches in length.
5) Springboks have a unique behavior known as pronking, where they leap into the air with all four legs stiff, lifting their back slightly to display the white crest on their rump.
6) They are social animals and usually live in herds ranging from 10 to 100 individuals, mainly consisting of females and their offspring.
7) Springboks can survive in arid habitats like deserts as they are well adapted to conserving water. They mainly rely on obtaining moisture from the vegetation they eat.
8) These antelopes are herbivores and primarily feed on grass, herbs, leaves, and shrubs.
9) Female springboks have a gestation period of about six months and usually give birth to a single calf, which can stand and run within minutes of being born.
10) The population of springboks diminished due to overhunting and habitat destruction in the past, but conservation efforts have helped increase their numbers in recent years.
11) Springboks are preyed upon by various predators, including lions, cheetahs, leopards, and hyenas.
12) They have excellent eyesight and can detect movement from long distances, allowing them to quickly escape from potential threats.
13) Springboks communicate using various vocalizations, including snorts, bleats, and clicking sounds.
14) During the breeding season, males establish territories and compete for access to females by engaging in intense fights, using their horns to clash with rivals.
15) Springboks have become symbolic animals for South Africa and are often seen as a national emblem due to their grace, speed, and ability to overcome adversity in challenging environments.

Can we keep Springbok as our Pet?

Keeping a Springbok, an African antelope, as a pet may seem appealing to some people, but it is important to understand that these animals are not suitable to be domesticated. Springboks are wild animals with specific needs and behaviors that cannot be satisfied in a domestic setting. Moreover, it is worth mentioning that the Springbok’s population is not extinct, so discussing its extinction is unnecessary in this context. However, we can still explore why it would be inappropriate to keep them as pets.

Firstly, Springboks are free-spirited creatures that need large, open spaces to roam and graze. They are known for their incredible speed and agility, which enables them to cover great distances in search of food and water. In captivity, providing such vast areas for them to thrive would be nearly impossible. Keeping a Springbok in a limited space, such as a backyard or small enclosure, would lead to frustration and stress, negatively impacting their physical and mental well-being.

Secondly, Springboks have specific dietary requirements that are difficult to meet in a domestic environment. They predominantly eat fresh grass and vegetation found in their natural habitats. Providing a balanced diet for a Springbok would require extensive knowledge, resources, and access to a wide variety of plants. It would be challenging to replicate their natural diet solely through domestic means, potentially leading to malnutrition and health issues.

Overall, it is best to respect the natural habitat of Springboks and allow them to live freely in their native African plains. Keeping them as pets would not only be unfair to the animal but also unsustainable and harmful to their welfare. It is crucial to appreciate and admire these magnificent creatures in their natural environment rather than attempting to keep them as pets.

Size of Springbok

The Springbok is a small and graceful animal found in southern Africa. It is about the same size as a medium-sized dog, with a height of about three feet at the shoulder. This makes it quite a bit smaller than some other antelope species, like the African Eland or the Kudu.

The male Springbok, also known as a ram, is slightly larger than the female, or ewe. Adult rams can weigh up to 100 pounds, while ewes usually weigh around 80 pounds. Despite their small size, Springboks are known for their impressive jumping ability. They can soar up to 13 feet in the air and leap forward up to 50 feet, making them great runners and escape artists.

The Springbok’s size has helped it survive in the African savannah. Being smaller means that it requires less food and water to sustain itself. Additionally, its small stature allows it to be more agile and agile, making it easier for them to escape from predators like lions and cheetahs. Their light build also allows them to move quickly through grasslands, searching for the best grazing spots and fresh water sources.

In conclusion, the Springbok is a small and elegant animal found in southern Africa. Its size, similar to a medium-sized dog, gives it advantages in survival. It helps the Springbok to be nimble, jump high, and maintain a higher level of agility, both when running away from predators and finding food and water in the vast savannah.

Habitat of Springbok

The springbok, a beautiful animal found in Africa, has a unique habitat that suits its needs perfectly. It prefers to live in arid plains and grasslands, where water and fresh grass are readily available. These habitats can be found in countries like South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe. The springbok has adapted to survive in these areas by developing certain characteristics and behaviors.

In the vast open grasslands, springboks can easily blend in with their surroundings due to their light yellowish-brown fur. They have a marvelous ability to sense danger, with their eyes situated high on their heads, giving them a wide field of vision. This helps them spot predators such as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas from a distance. When they detect any sign of danger, they have the remarkable skill of pronking. Pronking is when the springbok leaps into the air, lifting all four of its legs off the ground, and swiftly changing direction in mid-air. This confuses and intimidates their predators, making it quite hard for them to catch the agile springbok.

Because springboks need to drink water regularly, they tend to live near waterholes or rivers within their habitat. These water sources are crucial for their survival, as they not only quench their thirst but also provide the necessary nutrients in the form of fresh green grass. During the dry season, when water becomes scarce, springboks have the ability to obtain most of their water needs from the vegetation they consume. So even though their habitat can be harsh and dry, they have adapted cleverly to survive and thrive in these conditions.

In conclusion, springboks are perfectly designed to live in the arid plains and grasslands of Africa. Their light brown fur allows them to camouflage with the surroundings, their keen eyesight helps them detect predators, and their unique pronking behavior helps them evade danger. By living near water sources and being able to sustain themselves with the vegetation they consume, these marvelous animals have managed to adapt and flourish in their habitat.

Evolution of Springbok

The story of how springboks came to be is a fascinating one. These incredible animals have evolved over millions of years to become the graceful creatures we know today. It all started long ago, when their ancestors roamed the African savannas. These early relatives were small and had short legs, which made it easier for them to hide in the tall grasses.

As time went on, the environment changed, and so did the springboks. They adapted to survive in the harsh and dry conditions of the land. Their legs became longer and stronger, allowing them to run faster and jump higher. This was a crucial adaptation that helped them escape from predators like lions and cheetahs.

Another important change in the evolution of springboks was the development of their unique ability to pronk. Pronking is a behavior where they jump high into the air and arch their backs, showing off their beautiful white bellies. This behavior not only helps them communicate with other springboks but also confuses their predators.

Today, springboks continue to thrive in the African grasslands. They are known for their incredible speed, agility, and striking appearance. It is truly amazing to think about the journey that these animals have taken over millions of years to become the majestic springboks we see today.

Classification of Springbok

The Springbok animal, also known as Antidorcas marsupialis, is a remarkable mammal found in the southern parts of Africa. It belongs to the family Bovidae, which includes other species like antelopes, gazelles, and goats. This family is classified under the order Artiodactyla, a group of even-toed hoofed animals that also includes pigs, deer, cows, and many others.

Springboks are medium-sized antelopes known for their unique physical characteristics. They have a slender body with a light brown coat, adorned with white markings on their face, legs, and rump. These markings are significant as they play a crucial role in identifying and communicating with other members of their herd. Springboks are also known for their incredible speed and agility. They can reach speeds of up to 60 miles per hour and perform impressive leaps, known as “pronk,” to escape from predators.

The classification of Springbok animals goes even further as they belong to the subfamily Antilopinae, which is a group within the family Bovidae. The Antilopinae subfamily includes various antelopes, such as the Gazella genus, which includes species like the Thomson’s gazelle and the Grant’s gazelle. Springboks are unique within this subfamily due to their ability to engage in “stotting” behavior. Stotting is when an animal jumps high in the air with all four feet, often in a vertical direction. This behavior is thought to confuse predators and display the Springbok’s strength and fitness.

In summary, Springbok animals are unique members of the Bovidae family, belonging to the order Artiodactyla. Their distinctive physical features, remarkable speed, and agility make them a fascinating species to study. As part of the Antilopinae subfamily, Springboks stand out due to their remarkable stotting behavior. Overall, these animals are a wonderful example of the diverse and fascinating creatures that inhabit our planet.

Types of Springbok

1. Physical Appearance: The Springbok has a tan coat with a white belly and a dark stripe on its side. It stands at about three feet tall and has long, thin legs that allow it to run very fast in the open savannahs.
2. Speed and Agility: Springboks are known for their incredible speed and agility. They can reach speeds up to 60 miles per hour and jump up to 13 feet into the air. This helps them escape from predators like cheetahs and lions.
3. Migratory Behavior: Springboks are migratory animals, meaning they travel long distances in search of food and water. They can travel up to 186 miles in a single migration, following the patterns of rainfall.
4. Social Creatures: These animals live in herds, usually consisting of around 100 individuals. Being in a herd allows them to better defend against predators and share information about food and water sources.
5. Diet: Springboks are herbivores, meaning they only eat plants. Their diet mainly consists of grass, leaves, and shrubs. They have a unique adaptation that allows them to extract moisture from their food, minimizing their need for water.
6. Breeding Season: The breeding season for Springboks occurs during the dry season when food resources are more plentiful. Male Springboks compete for dominance by displaying remarkable leaps and jumps, known as pronking, to attract females.
7. Territorial Marking: Male Springboks mark their territories by scraping the ground with their hooves and urinating on their legs. They also have scent glands in their cheeks, which they use to rub on grass or branches to communicate with other Springboks.
8. Conservation Status: Springboks are listed as a species of least concern on the IUCN Red List, meaning they are not currently at risk of extinction. However, habitat loss and hunting for their meat and hides still pose threats to their population.
9. Cultural Significance: Springboks are the national animal of South Africa and hold cultural significance. They are often used as symbols of sport teams and represent freedom, independence, and resilience.
10. Eco-Tourism: Due to their beauty, unique behaviors, and speed, Springboks attract tourists who visit national parks and game reserves in Africa. This helps generate income for local communities and raises awareness about conservation efforts.

Geographical Presence of Springbok

The Springbok animal is found in the southern regions of Africa, particularly in countries such as South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana. These countries have vast grasslands and savannas, which provide the perfect habitat for the Springbok to thrive. They are commonly seen in national parks and game reserves, where they can roam freely and graze on the abundance of grass and leaves.

On the other hand, Springbok are not found in other parts of the world. They are unique to the African continent and do not inhabit regions outside of Africa. This is because their survival and adaptation are closely tied to the specific environmental conditions found in Africa, such as the climate, vegetation, and availability of water sources. Therefore, you will not find Springbok in places like Europe, Asia, or the Americas.

In summary, Springbok are found in the southern regions of Africa, such as South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana, where they can thrive in the grasslands and savannas. However, they are not found in other parts of the world as their habitat requirements are specific to Africa. Springbok are fascinating animals that have adapted to survive in their unique environment, making them a special part of the African wildlife heritage.

Scientific Name of Springbok

The scientific name of the springbok animal is Antidorcas marsupialis. The springbok is a type of antelope that is found in southern Africa. Its scientific name derives from the Greek words “anti-” meaning opposite and “dorcas” meaning gazelle.

Springboks are well-known for their incredible ability to jump. They can leap up to 13 feet into the air in a technique called “pronking.” Pronking is a way for the springbok to show off its strength and speed to potential mates and also to warn predators that it is not an easy target. In addition to their impressive jumping skills, springboks can also reach running speeds of up to 55 miles per hour.

These amazing animals usually live in herds, which can contain thousands of individuals. They are well-adapted to the dry and arid regions they inhabit, possessing a special kidney system that enables them to conserve water. Furthermore, springboks can survive for long periods without water by extracting moisture from the plants they eat.

In conclusion, the springbok, scientifically known as Antidorcas marsupialis, is a remarkable animal found in southern Africa. With its exceptional jumping ability and incredible speed, it has developed unique survival strategies for the harsh environments it inhabits. Springboks are social creatures that live in large herds and possess specialized adaptations to make the most of the limited water resources in their environment.

Diet of Springbok

The springbok animal has a very interesting and unique diet. They are herbivores, which means they eat plants and not other animals. As grazers, they mainly consume grasses, leaves, and shoots. These animals prefer to eat vegetation that is green and juicy, as it provides them with plenty of nutrients and helps them stay hydrated.

During periods of rain, springboks move to areas where the grass is abundant and fresh. They have specialized teeth, called incisors and molars, which help them efficiently chew and digest their plant-based diet. This enables them to extract the maximum amount of nutrients from the food they eat. They can also eat tougher plants, such as woody bushes and shrubs, when other food sources become scarce.

Springboks have adapted to their environment by being able to survive without drinking water for long periods of time. Instead, they get most of their water from the plants they eat. This is especially important during dry seasons when water is scarce. Springboks are also able to obtain necessary minerals and salts from their diet, which helps them maintain their overall health and well-being.

In conclusion, the diet of the springbok animal consists mainly of grass, leaves, and shoots. They are herbivores and have specialized teeth to effectively eat and digest their food. They can also survive without water by getting most of their hydration from the plants they consume. By having such a specific diet, the springbok animal has adapted to its environment and thrives in the African savannas.

Locomotion of Springbok

Springboks are very fast animals that can move with incredible speed and grace. When they run, they use a unique type of locomotion called “pronking.” Pronking is a special way of moving where the springbok jumps really high and kicks out its back legs at the same time. It looks like the springbok is bouncing or leaping through the air!

This jumping motion helps the springbok to confuse its predators and make it harder for them to catch it. The springbok can run extremely fast too, reaching speeds of up to 60 miles per hour! It uses its long legs to cover a lot of ground quickly and escape from any danger. With their amazing pronking ability and incredible speed, springboks truly are remarkable animals!

Social and Sexual Behaviour of Springbok

Springboks, a type of antelope found in Africa, have interesting social and sexual behaviors. These behaviors help them survive and reproduce in their harsh environment. In fact, springboks are known for their incredible ability to jump high into the air when they are excited or alarmed, which is called “pronking.”

Springboks live in herds, which consist of females, their young, and a dominant male called a ram. The ram protects the herd from predators and other males. He marks his territory by rubbing his scent onto shrubs or urinating on bushes. This lets other springboks know that the area belongs to him. The females usually stick together and take turns watching out for danger while the others eat.

When it comes to mating, the ram performs impressive displays to attract females during the breeding season. He stands tall, arches his back, and shows off his beautiful curved horns. The females choose a male based on his strength and the quality of his display. Once a pair is formed, the ram usually stays close to the female, rubbing his head against hers and following her closely.

In summary, springboks live in herds led by a dominant male ram. They use social behaviors, such as rubbing their scent on things, to communicate and protect their territory. During mating season, the ram shows off his strength and beauty to attract a female. All these behaviors help springboks survive and continue their population in the African savanna.

Reproduction and Lifecycle of Springbok

The springbok is a fascinating animal with an interesting life cycle and reproduction process. Let’s explore how these beautiful creatures bring new life into the world.

The life cycle of a springbok begins when a baby springbok, called a calf, is born. The female springbok gives birth to one calf at a time. The calf is usually born in the spring or summer when the weather is warm and there is plenty of food. The mother takes good care of her calf, protecting it from predators and teaching it important survival skills. The calf stays close to its mother, learning how to find food and stay safe in the wild.

As the calf grows up, it starts to become more independent. It learns to graze on grass and other plants, which provide the necessary nutrients for its growth. By the time the calf reaches about six months old, it is able to survive on its own. At this stage, it is considered a sub-adult and can join a group of other sub-adults for protection and companionship.

Once a springbok becomes an adult, around the age of two, it is able to reproduce. During the breeding season, which occurs in spring or early summer, the adult males, known as rams, compete for the attention of the females, called ewes. They display impressive behaviors like leaping high into the air and pronking, which is a unique way of jumping with all four feet off the ground. The winning male gets the chance to mate with the female.

In summary, the springbok goes through a life cycle that includes the birth and growth of a calf, the transition to a sub-adult, and eventually the ability to reproduce as an adult. It is a remarkable journey filled with learning, survival skills, and the continuation of the species. The unique behaviors displayed by adult males during the breeding season add to the incredible nature of the springbok’s life cycle.

Threats to Springbok

The Springbok is a beautiful animal found in the grasslands of southern Africa. However, there are several threats that are endangering the survival of these magnificent creatures.

One major threat to Springboks is habitat loss. As humans continue to expand their cities, agricultural land, and infrastructure, the natural habitat of Springboks is being destroyed. This means the animals are left with less space to feed and roam freely. Additionally, their access to water sources may be limited, leading to dehydration and starvation. Without a suitable habitat, Springboks struggle to find food and water, putting their lives at risk.

Another threat to these animals is poaching. Poachers are people who hunt Springboks illegally for various reasons. Some poachers kill them for their meat, while others illegally sell their horns or hides for profit. This illegal hunting poses a significant threat to the Springbok population and is pushing these animals towards extinction.

Lastly, climate change is impacting the Springbok population. Rising temperatures and erratic weather conditions affect their ability to find food and water. Moreover, extreme weather events like droughts and floods can result in a scarcity of food and destroy their natural habitats. As a result, the survival of Springboks becomes even more challenging.

As we can see, Springboks face many threats that put their existence in danger. Habitat loss, poaching, and climate change all contribute to the decline of the Springbok population. It is crucial for us to address and mitigate these threats by raising awareness, implementing stronger laws against poaching, and taking steps to combat climate change. By taking these actions, we can help safeguard the future of the Springbok and preserve the beauty and diversity of our natural world.

Population of Springbok

The population of Springbok animals is estimated to be around 1.2 million. These beautiful animals are found in the southern part of Africa, mainly in countries such as Namibia and South Africa. They are known for their unique jumping abilities and the beautiful colors of their fur.

If, unfortunately, the Springbok animal becomes extinct, it would be a great loss for our environment. Extinction means that a species no longer exists. This happens when there are no more animals of that kind left in the world. It is a sad event because once a species becomes extinct, it can never come back.

There are many reasons why animals become extinct, such as loss of habitat, hunting, and climate change. It is important for us humans to take care of nature and protect these amazing creatures. By preserving their habitats and not hunting them excessively, we can help prevent their extinction.

In conclusion, the Springbok animal population is currently around 1.2 million. However, if we do not take care of our environment and protect these animals, they could become extinct. Let us all work together to ensure the survival of these unique and beautiful creatures for future generations.

Conclusion

In summary, the Springbok is a fascinating animal that belongs to the antelope family. This Animals Name is known for its unique jumping ability and beautiful appearance. It is found in the grasslands and woodlands of southern Africa, such as Namibia and South Africa.

The Springbok has a rich history and is not only the national animal of South Africa but also holds cultural significance. Its ability to leap up to 13 feet in the air and make sudden, agile turns helps it evade predators like lions and cheetahs. These amazing skills make the Springbok an extraordinary animal to observe in the wild.

The Springbok is a medium-sized antelope, with a body length of about 4-5 feet and standing at a height of about 2-3 feet at the shoulder. It has a distinct coat pattern, with a reddish-brown back, white underbelly, and a dark stripe running down its side. This unique coloration enables the Springbok to blend into its surroundings and provides it with camouflage against potential threats.

In conclusion, the Springbok is a remarkable animal with a long history, incredible physical abilities, and a beautiful appearance. Its habitat, size, and behavior all contribute to its uniqueness. Observing a Springbok in its natural habitat can be a truly rewarding experience, and it is important to appreciate and protect this special Animals Name.

Frequently Asked Questions about Springbok (FAQ’s)

Q: What is a Springbok?
A: The Springbok is a medium-sized antelope found in southern Africa.

Q: What is the scientific name of the Springbok?
A: The scientific name of the Springbok is Antidorcas marsupialis.

Q: What is the habitat of Springboks?
A: Springboks inhabit the semi-arid grasslands and savannas of southern Africa.

Q: What is the average lifespan of a Springbok?
A: Springboks have an average lifespan of about 10 to 12 years.

Q: How fast can a Springbok run?
A: Springboks are incredibly fast runners and can reach speeds of up to 55 miles per hour.

Q: Do male and female Springboks have horns?
A: Yes, both male and female Springboks have impressive, lyre-shaped horns.

Q: What do Springboks eat?
A: Springboks are herbivores and mainly graze on grasses, leaves, and shoots.

Q: Why do Springboks engage in pronking?
A: Pronking, also known as stotting, is a behavior exhibited by Springboks to confuse predators and attract mates.

Q: What are the predators of Springboks?
A: Predators of Springboks include lions, cheetahs, leopards, and wild dogs.

Q: How do Springboks protect themselves from predators?
A: Springboks have excellent eyesight and hearing, allowing them to detect predators from far distances. They also rely on their incredible speed and pronking behavior to evade predators.

Q: Are Springboks social animals?
A: Yes, Springboks are highly social animals and prefer to live in herds ranging from a few individuals to thousands.

Q: Do Springboks migrate?
A: Yes, Springboks are known to undertake seasonal migrations in search of food and water.

Q: How do Springboks cope with the harsh desert conditions?
A: Springboks have adapted to the arid conditions by being able to obtain water from the vegetation they consume.

Q: How many Springboks are left in the wild?
A: Although exact numbers are difficult to determine, the Springbok population is estimated to be around 2.5 million.

Q: Are Springboks endangered?
A: No, Springboks are not endangered. They are classified as a species of least concern by the IUCN Red List.

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