In this blog post, we will be exploring the fascinating world of mammals, with a specific focus on the Cashmere Goat. Native to the chilly plateaus of Central Asia, these animals have a long history intertwined with humans. Let us dive into their captivating history, interesting facts, size, habitat, and classification.
Cashmere Goats have been domesticated for over 3,000 years and are greatly valued for their luxurious cashmere wool. This fine wool is known for its incredible softness and warmth, making it highly sought after in the production of clothing and accessories. Throughout the years, these goats have become an integral part of the fashion industry.
Despite their name, Cashmere Goats are not just found in Cashmere, but are also bred in various parts of the world, including China, Mongolia, and Iran. They are well-suited to live in harsh environments, where their thick, double-layered coats protect them from the extreme cold temperatures. These goats are herbivores, enjoying a diet rich in grass, leaves, and shrubs.
In terms of classification, Cashmere Goats belong to the Bovidae family, which includes other hoofed mammals like cows, sheep, and antelopes. Within this family, they are classified under the Capra genus. These goats are known for their medium to large size, with males reaching up to 75 centimeters at the shoulder and weighing around 75 kilograms. The females tend to be slightly smaller.
Stay tuned for our blog post as we delve deeper into the enchanting world of mammals, specifically focusing on Cashmere Goats. If you want to explore more about various fascinating animals, remember that we already have an article on over 155 animals, where you can learn about their unique characteristics, habitats, and more. So, let’s embark on this journey together and discover the wonders of the animal kingdom!
History of Cashmere Goat
The Cashmere goat has been around for centuries and has an interesting history. These goats are known for their soft and warm fiber called cashmere, which is used to make clothing and other textiles. The origins of the Cashmere goat can be traced back to the Himalayan region of Asia, where they were first discovered.
In the ancient times, people living in the Himalayan region used the soft wool of Cashmere goats to make warm clothing in order to survive the cold winters. They carefully collected the undercoat of the goats during the molting season and then spun it into yarn to make garments. This special type of wool was highly valued for its warmth and luxurious feel.
With time, the fame of Cashmere goats and their wool spread to other parts of the world. The demand for cashmere products grew and people realized the importance of these goats for their fiber. As a result, Cashmere goats were bred and raised in many different countries. Today, these goats can be found in various places around the world, including the United States, China, Mongolia, and Iran.
Cashmere goats require specific care and attention due to their long and fine coat. They are well-adapted to living in harsh climates, such as the cold and snowy mountains. To get the best quality cashmere, the goats are raised in regions with extreme weather conditions. In addition, the goats need to be properly groomed and the fiber must be carefully harvested to ensure its high quality.
In conclusion, the Cashmere goat has a long and fascinating history. From its origins in the Himalayan region to its popularity across the globe, these goats have provided us with the valuable cashmere fiber for centuries. With their soft and warm wool, Cashmere goats continue to be cherished and sought after by people all over the world.
Importance of Cashmere Goat
Cashmere goats are special animals that have a lot of importance. People have been using them and their hair for a very long time. Their hair is very soft and warm, so it can keep us cozy during cold winters. That’s why it’s so valuable.
The hair of cashmere goats is used to make special clothes, like sweaters and scarves. These clothes are very expensive because the hair is hard to get. Cashmere goats only produce a small amount of hair each year, so it takes a lot of time and effort to gather enough for making clothes.
Another importance of cashmere goats is that raising them can be good for farmers. They can sell the cashmere hair and make money. This money can help them support their families and improve their lives. It also helps in the economy of a country because people buy cashmere clothes and it creates jobs for others.
In conclusion, cashmere goats are special because of their soft and warm hair. They provide us with cozy clothes, and their hair is valuable. They also help farmers earn money and contribute to the economy. That’s why cashmere goats are important and valued animals.
Amazing Facts About Cashmere Goat
1. Cashmere goats are a breed of goats known for producing a soft and luxurious type of wool called cashmere.
2. They are mainly found in the regions of Central Asia, particularly in countries like China, Mongolia, Iran, and Afghanistan.
3. Cashmere goats have a long history, dating back thousands of years, as their wool has been highly valued for its warmth and quality.
4. These goats have a distinct appearance, with a medium-sized body covered in long, thick, and dense hair.
5. The cashmere fibers are found underneath the outer coat of hair, providing insulation and protection against the cold weather.
6. These goats have a gentle and docile temperament, making them easy to handle and manage.
7. Cashmere goats are herbivores and typically feed on grass, leaves, shrubs, and other plant materials.
8. Due to their winter coat, they adapt well to cold climates and can withstand harsh winter conditions.
9. The wool of cashmere goats is obtained through a process called combing or shearing, where the fibers are carefully collected.
10. The cashmere wool is highly praised for its softness, warmth, and lightweight nature, making it a popular choice for clothing like sweaters, scarves, and shawls.
11. The demand for cashmere wool is high worldwide, leading to the breeding of cashmere goats in various countries other than their traditional habitats.
12. Cashmere wool is more expensive than regular wool due to the limited supply and intricate collection process.
13. The average lifespan of a cashmere goat is around 15-20 years if properly cared for.
14. These goats are adaptable and can survive in different types of environments, ranging from high altitudes to lowland regions.
15. Cashmere goats have been crossbred with other goat breeds to improve their quality and quantity of wool production.
Can we keep Cashmere Goat as our Pet?
The Cashmere goat is a beautiful animal that is highly valued for its soft and luxurious coat. Many people wonder if they can keep a Cashmere goat as a pet. However, it is important to know that Cashmere goats are not typically kept as pets. They are mainly raised for their prized fibers, known as cashmere, which is used to make warm and cozy clothing.
Keeping a Cashmere goat as a pet can be challenging because they require special care and attention. These goats have specific dietary needs and need a lot of space to roam and graze. They also require regular grooming and shearing to maintain their coat, which can be a time-consuming task. Additionally, Cashmere goats are herd animals and thrive in the company of other goats, so keeping only one as a pet may not provide them with a happy and fulfilling life.
Moreover, it is worth mentioning that the extinction of the Cashmere goat is not a concern at the moment. However, if one day this species were to become extinct, it would be a great loss to the world. It is our responsibility to protect and conserve these animals. If the Cashmere goat were to go extinct, it would not be possible to keep them as pets anymore, highlighting the importance of preserving the diverse range of animal species that exist on our planet.
In conclusion, although the thought of having a Cashmere goat as a pet may be intriguing, they are not suitable for domestication. They require specialized care, space, and social interactions. Furthermore, it is crucial to remember the importance of protecting these animals and their habitats to prevent them from becoming extinct.
Size of Cashmere Goat
Cashmere goats are known for their small to medium size. They are not very big animals, with the males typically weighing between 150 to 180 pounds (68 to 82 kilograms) and the females weighing around 100 to 140 pounds (45 to 64 kilograms). Compared to other farm animals, such as cows or horses, Cashmere goats are on the smaller side.
When thinking about the size of a Cashmere goat, it’s important to consider their height as well. On average, these goats stand about 2 to 3 feet (61 to 91 centimeters) tall at the shoulder. Their height, weight, and overall size make them easy to handle and care for, especially for farmers with limited space.
Despite their smaller size, Cashmere goats have a unique and valuable characteristic. The fine undercoat of their hair, known as cashmere, is highly sought after for its softness and warmth. This luxurious fiber is used to produce high-quality clothing items like sweaters and scarves. So, even though Cashmere goats may be small in size, their special hair makes them a valuable and profitable addition to farms.
In summary, Cashmere goats are relatively small to medium-sized animals. They weigh between 100 to 180 pounds and stand about 2 to 3 feet tall at the shoulder. Despite their small size, these goats are highly valued for their soft and warm cashmere fiber.
Habitat of Cashmere Goat
The habitat of Cashmere Goat animal is found in the mountainous regions of Central Asia. These goats are specially adapted to live in these harsh environments. They can be found in countries like Mongolia, China, Iran, Afghanistan, and India.
Cashmere Goats are well-suited for their habitats due to their unique physical characteristics. Their long, fine hair protects them from the cold temperatures and strong winds. They have a double coat consisting of a coarse outer layer and a soft undercoat called cashmere, which is highly prized for its warmth and softness. This thick coat helps them stay warm during the cold winters.
In these mountainous habitats, Cashmere Goats have access to a variety of vegetation to graze on. They are able to find food in areas with sparse vegetation, such as grasses, shrubs, and herbs. The rocky terrain also provides them with shelter and places to rest. These goats are excellent climbers, and their sharp hooves help them navigate steep slopes and rocky surfaces. They can often be seen perched on rocky outcrops, high above the ground.
Overall, the habitat of the Cashmere Goat is challenging yet ideal for their survival. The cold climate, rocky terrain, and availability of food make these mountainous regions a perfect home for these resilient animals. Their remarkable adaptations enable them to thrive in such environments, making them well-adapted to their unique habitats.
Evolution of Cashmere Goat
Cashmere goats have a fascinating evolutionary history. They are believed to have originated in the high-altitude regions of the Himalayas thousands of years ago. These goats are adapted to live in harsh environments, where food is scarce and the weather can be extreme. Over time, they have developed unique characteristics that help them survive in these challenging conditions.
Thousands of years ago, early humans recognized the value of the cashmere goat’s thick, soft, and warm fleece. They began to domesticate these goats, breeding them selectively to enhance the quality of their wool. As a result, the cashmere goat’s fleece has become highly prized for its luxurious and insulating properties.
The process of natural selection has also played a role in shaping the cashmere goat’s evolution. Only the strongest and most adaptable goats were able to survive and reproduce in their high-altitude habitats. This has led to the development of attributes such as strong legs for climbing steep mountains, long and dense fur to shield against harsh winds, and large lungs to cope with lower oxygen levels.
In summary, the evolution of cashmere goats has been a gradual process that took place over thousands of years. Their adaptation to the extreme conditions of the Himalayas and selective breeding by humans have shaped their physical characteristics and the quality of their fleece. Today, cashmere goats continue to be highly valued for their soft and warm wool, and their unique evolutionary journey is a testament to the wonders of nature.
Classification of Cashmere Goat
The cashmere goat is a special type of goat known for its soft and warm wool. These goats are found in the highlands of China, Mongolia, and Iran. They are classified as a domesticated animal, which means they have been bred and raised by humans for thousands of years.
Cashmere goats belong to the Capra hircus species, the same species as other common domesticated goats. However, what sets them apart is their unique wool. The wool from cashmere goats is finer and softer than regular goat’s wool, making it highly prized in the textile industry.
There are different breeds of cashmere goats, each with its own characteristics and qualities. Some of the popular breeds include the Inner Mongolian, the Tibetan, and the Iranian cashmere goats. These breeds have adapted to their specific environments and have slightly different wool qualities. Inner Mongolian cashmere goats, for example, have a higher yield of wool, whereas Iranian cashmere goats have longer and more lustrous fibers.
Cashmere goats are specially bred and raised for their wool, which is collected by combing or shearing. The fine fibers are painstakingly separated from the coarser hair, resulting in the luxurious cashmere wool we often see in clothing. The demand for cashmere products is high due to their exceptional insulation and softness.
In conclusion, cashmere goats are a special type of domesticated goat that produce highly prized wool. With different breeds and unique qualities, these goats have adapted to various environments. Their fine wool is collected and processed to create luxurious and warm cashmere products.
Different Types of Cashmere Goat
1. The white cashmere goat is the most popular breed as it produces the finest and softest cashmere wool, making it highly sought after in the textile industry.
2. The Kashmiri cashmere goat originates from the mountainous regions of northern India and Pakistan. It is known for its long and luxurious cashmere fibers.
3. The Mongolian cashmere goat is bred in the harsh climates of Mongolia, which results in a warm and durable cashmere wool with excellent insulation properties.
4. The Tibetan cashmere goat is raised in Tibet and the Himalayan region, producing cashmere fibers that are extremely soft, lightweight, and warm.
5. The Chinese cashmere goat is among the most popular breeds globally, known for its high-quality cashmere wool that is used in luxury fashion and knitting industries worldwide.
6. The Scottish cashmere goat, also known as the “Dalradian goat,” is native to Scotland. It produces dense cashmere fibers that are ideal for making warm and cozy garments.
7. The Iranian cashmere goat is found in Iran and is highly valued for its thick and lustrous cashmere wool, which is often used in the production of luxury clothing items.
8. The Australian cashmere goat is bred in Australia and produces cashmere fibers that are of high quality and commercially viable, contributing to the country’s cashmere industry.
9. The American cashmere goat is a breed developed in the United States and is known for its adaptability to various climates. It produces soft and luxurious cashmere wool.
10. The European cashmere goat, also known as the “Cashgora goat,” is found in various countries across Europe. Its cashmere fibers are valued for their exceptional warmth and softness, often used in premium garments and accessories.
Geographical Presence of Cashmere Goat
Cashmere goats are commonly found in the Himalayan region, which includes countries like India, Nepal, and Tibet. This region is known for its cold and mountainous terrain, making it an ideal habitat for these goats. They have adapted well to the harsh conditions, and their long, thick coats help protect them from the cold.
However, Cashmere goats are not found in all parts of the world. They require specific environmental conditions and are not suited to live in warmer regions. They cannot survive in areas with high temperatures or intense humidity. Therefore, you will not find Cashmere goats in tropical countries or places with a hot climate.
Furthermore, Cashmere goats are primarily found in Asia and are not native to other continents like Africa, Europe, or the Americas. Although these regions have their own goat breeds, the specific breed that produces valuable Cashmere wool is limited to the Himalayan region. Their unique adaptations and ability to produce high-quality fiber have made them highly sought after in the textile industry.
In summary, Cashmere goats are found in the Himalayan region, which includes countries like India, Nepal, and Tibet. They are well adapted to the cold and mountainous environment in this region. However, you will not find them in tropical countries or places with a hot climate. Cashmere goats are native to Asia and are not found in other continents like Africa, Europe, or the Americas.
Scientific Name of Cashmere Goat
The scientific name of the Cashmere Goat is Capra hircus. This animal, also known as the Cashmere wool goat, is domesticated and bred for its soft and luxurious cashmere wool. Capra hircus belongs to the Bovidae family, which includes mammals with cloven hooves and hollow horns.
Cashmere goats are native to the mountainous regions of Central Asia, particularly in countries like Mongolia, China, and Afghanistan. They are highly adapted to harsh and cold climates, with their long and dense fur providing insulation during winter. Their wool is highly prized for its softness, warmth, and lightweight properties, making it a highly sought-after material in the textile industry.
These animals have a distinctive appearance with a compact and muscular body, short legs, and a thick mane. Their wool comes in various colors, including white, beige, brown, and gray. They are primarily herbivores, feeding on grass, leaves, and other plant materials.
In summary, the scientific name of the Cashmere Goat is Capra hircus. These domesticated animals are known for their soft and luxurious cashmere wool, which is highly valued in the textile industry. They are native to mountainous regions in Central Asia and have adapted to cold climates with their dense fur. Cashmere goats have a compact body and feed primarily on plant materials.
Diet of Cashmere Goat
The Cashmere goat is a special animal that lives in certain areas of the world. One interesting thing about these goats is their diet. Cashmere goats eat a variety of plants and grasses that can be found in their natural habitat.
In the wild, Cashmere goats like to munch on leaves, twigs, and even bark from trees. They also enjoy eating different types of grasses. These plants provide them with the nutrients they need to stay healthy and strong. Sometimes, they may even eat small fruits or flowers if they come across them.
It is important for Cashmere goats to have a good diet because they produce a special type of fur called cashmere. This fur is soft and warm, and many people use it to make cozy sweaters and shawls. Eating the right foods helps the goats grow a thick coat of cashmere fur, which keeps them warm in cold weather.
In conclusion, the Cashmere goat has a diet that consists of plants and grasses. These animals eat leaves, twigs, grasses, and sometimes even small fruits or flowers. By eating these foods, Cashmere goats are able to grow a thick coat of cashmere fur, which is very valuable.
Locomotion of Cashmere Goat
Cashmere goats move around by walking and running on their four strong and sturdy legs. They are efficient walkers and can travel long distances to find food and shelter. These amazing goats have a smooth and balanced stride, making their locomotion appear graceful and effortless.
Using their front and back legs together, cashmere goats walk by lifting one leg at a time. They move in a rhythmic motion, first lifting a front leg, then a back leg, and so on. This allows them to maintain their balance and keep moving forward steadily. When they want to move faster, they break into a run. During their run, all their legs leave the ground in a powerful and coordinated action. It’s incredible to see how fast these goats can go when they need to!
In summary, cashmere goats have a smooth and balanced gait when they walk or run. Their locomotion is a result of coordinated movements of their four legs, allowing them to travel long distances and run quickly when necessary.
Social and Sexual Behaviour of Cashmere Goat
Cashmere goats, just like other animals, have their own social and sexual behaviors. These behaviors help them interact with fellow goats and find mates. Let’s learn more about their interesting behaviors!
In terms of social behavior, cashmere goats are known to be quite gregarious animals. This means that they enjoy being in herds and spending time with other goats. They communicate with each other using different sounds, such as bleating, to express their emotions or to warn others of danger. Goats also establish a hierarchy within the herd, where the dominant ones get to eat first and have priority access to resources like food and water. They often engage in playful behaviors, such as head-butting or jumping, to establish their social status or simply have fun.
When it comes to sexual behavior, cashmere goats have a specific mating season. This means that they are more likely to reproduce during a certain time of the year. During this season, male goats, called bucks, become more alert and show off their strength and dominance to attract females, known as does. They do this by performing rituals that involve head-butting or chasing other males. The dominant buck is usually chosen by the female goats to mate with and continue the cycle of life.
These are just a few aspects of the social and sexual behavior of cashmere goats. Observing and understanding these behaviors helps us appreciate and care for these animals better. They remind us that just like humans, animals have their own unique ways of interacting with each other and perpetuating their species.
Reproduction and Lifecycle of Cashmere Goat
The cashmere goat has a unique life cycle that involves reproduction and the birth of baby goats called kids. Just like other mammals, the reproduction of cashmere goats begins with a male and a female mating. The male goat, called a buck, will court and mate with the female goat, called a doe.
After mating, the female cashmere goat will go through a gestation period, which is the time it takes for the baby goats to grow inside her body. This period usually lasts around five months. When it is time for the babies to be born, the doe will find a safe place to give birth, often away from the rest of the herd.
Once the baby goats, or kids, are born, they rely on their mother’s milk for nourishment. The mother cashmere goat will nurse her kids, ensuring they grow strong and healthy. As the kids get older, they will start to eat solid food, such as grass and leaves, alongside their mother’s milk.
In summary, the reproduction and life cycle of cashmere goats involve a male and a female mating, followed by a gestation period of around five months. The female then gives birth to baby goats called kids, which rely on their mother’s milk for nourishment. As they grow older, the kids will start eating solid food.
Threats to Cashmere Goat
Cashmere goats, like any other living beings, face several threats that endanger their well-being and survival. One of the main challenges is the loss of natural habitat. Rapid urbanization and deforestation result in the destruction of the goats’ natural environment, leaving them with fewer places to find food and shelter. This can lead to reduced population numbers and increased vulnerability to other threats.
Another significant threat to cashmere goats is poaching or illegal hunting. These majestic creatures have valuable fur, which makes them appealing targets for hunters. With an increase in demand for cashmere products, there is a rise in the number of goats that are illegally hunted and killed for their fur. Poaching not only harms goat populations, but it also disrupts the natural balance of ecosystems as these animals play a vital role in maintaining the environment.
Lastly, climate change poses a significant threat to cashmere goats. Changes in temperature and weather patterns can negatively affect their ability to survive and reproduce. For instance, extreme heatwaves or cold spells can lead to a decrease in food availability, making it difficult for them to find sufficient nourishment. Additionally, unpredictable weather events like droughts or heavy rainfall can cause stress and disease outbreaks among the goat population, further jeopardizing their survival.
In conclusion, the threats faced by cashmere goats are primarily due to the loss of their natural habitat, poaching, and climate change. It is crucial for us to take immediate steps to address these issues and ensure the preservation of these magnificent animals. By protecting their habitats, enforcing laws against poaching, and prioritizing efforts to combat climate change, we can help secure the future of cashmere goats and maintain the biodiversity of our planet.
Population of Cashmere Goat
The population of the Cashmere Goat animal is estimated to be around 15 million in the world. This beautiful creature can be found in various parts of the world, including India, China, Mongolia, and Iran. Its luxurious and soft fleece, called cashmere, is highly prized for its warmth and quality.
However, it is important to note that this animal has been facing threats to its population. Due to overexploitation of cashmere for commercial purposes, as well as the loss of suitable habitats, the numbers of this animal have been declining in recent years. Efforts are being made to protect this species and promote sustainable practices in the cashmere industry.
In some unfortunate cases, the Cashmere Goat animal has become extinct. Extinction means that there are no more individuals of that species left in the world. This can happen because of various reasons, such as habitat destruction, hunting, or diseases. It is a sad event because once a species becomes extinct, it can never be brought back. Therefore, it is crucial to protect and conserve the habitats and populations of all species to prevent such tragedies from occurring.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Cashmere Goat is a remarkable animal with a fascinating history. These goats are known for their soft and luxurious cashmere wool, which is highly valued in the fashion industry. The Cashmere Goat is native to the Himalayan region and has been domesticated for thousands of years.
Despite their small size, Cashmere Goats are strong and adaptable. They can survive in harsh climates and rugged terrains, making them well-suited for their mountainous habitat. Their thick double coat provides excellent insulation, allowing them to withstand extreme cold temperatures.
Cashmere Goats belong to the animal classification of mammals. They are herbivores, meaning they primarily feed on plants and grasses. Due to the high demand for cashmere wool, these goats are now bred in various parts of the world, including China, Mongolia, and Iran.
In summary, the Cashmere Goat is an incredible animal that has played a significant role in the textile industry for centuries. Its history, unique attributes, and adaptable nature make it a remarkable creature. The world of fashion benefits greatly from the remarkable cashmere wool produced by these goats.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cashmere Goat (FAQ’s)
Q: What is a cashmere goat?
A: A cashmere goat is a breed of domesticated goat known for its luxurious and soft cashmere wool.
Q: Where do cashmere goats come from?
A: Cashmere goats originate from the Himalayan region of Kashmir, India.
Q: How long have cashmere goats been bred for their wool?
A: Cashmere goats have been bred for their wool for over 2,000 years.
Q: What is cashmere wool?
A: Cashmere wool is a fine, soft, and lightweight fiber that is derived from the undercoat of cashmere goats.
Q: How often do cashmere goats produce cashmere wool?
A: Cashmere goats produce cashmere wool once a year during the shedding season.
Q: How much cashmere can be obtained from a cashmere goat?
A: On average, each cashmere goat can produce around 150 to 200 grams of cashmere wool per year.
Q: Is cashmere wool more expensive than regular wool?
A: Yes, cashmere wool is generally more expensive than regular wool due to its luxurious and rare qualities.
Q: Are cashmere goats raised solely for their wool?
A: Cashmere goats are primarily bred for their cashmere wool, but in some regions, they are also raised for meat and milk production.
Q: How long do cashmere goats live?
A: Cashmere goats have an average lifespan of around 12 to 14 years.
Q: Are cashmere goats difficult to raise?
A: Cashmere goats are generally hardy animals and can adapt to various climates and terrains, making them relatively easy to raise.
Q: Can cashmere goats be kept as pets?
A: While cashmere goats can be friendly and sociable animals, they require specific care and space, so they are not commonly kept as pets.
Q: How often do cashmere goats need to be sheared?
A: Cashmere goats are usually sheared once a year, typically in the spring months before their new coat starts growing.
Q: Do cashmere goats require any special grooming?
A: Cashmere goats do not require extensive grooming, but regular checking for parasites and maintenance of their hooves is necessary.
Q: Are cashmere goats eco-friendly?
A: Cashmere goats are considered eco-friendly as they graze on natural vegetation, helping to prevent soil erosion and their fiber is biodegradable.
Q: Can cashmere goats be crossbred with other goat breeds?
A: Cashmere goats can be crossbred with other goat breeds to enhance certain qualities but doing so may affect the quality of cashmere wool produced.
Q: How can I differentiate between cashmere and regular goat wool?
A: Cashmere wool is much finer, softer, and lighter than regular goat wool. It also has a unique warmth and insulation quality that sets it apart.
Hey there, I’m Tyler Swan! I worked as an Animal Care Specialist at Neuralink and completed my education at the University of California, Davis. Animals have always fascinated me, so I chose to study and work with them.
In my job, I take care of animals and make sure they’re healthy and happy. I’ve had cool roles like Lab Manager and Senior Research Assistant at Mitloehner Lab, where I’ve learned much about animals.
I’m not just about work, though. I love animals so much that I write articles about them! I enjoy sharing fun and interesting facts about our furry and feathered friends.
If you ever want to know more about animals or need help with animal info, ask! I’m here to make learning about animals easy and fun, just like chatting with friends.