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

By Morgan Gutierrez

Welcome to our blog post on otters! In this article, we will explore the fascinating world of these incredibly playful and intelligent animals. Otters are fascinating creatures that have captured the hearts of many animal lovers around the world. From their history to their habitat, we will cover it all!

Let’s start by delving into the history of otters. These amazing animals have been around for millions of years, with fossil records dating back to the Miocene epoch. Throughout history, otters have been revered and admired for their playful nature and their ability to adapt to various environments.

Now, let’s dive into some interesting facts about otters. Did you know that they belong to the Mustelidae family, which also includes badgers, weasels, and ferrets? Otters come in different sizes depending on their species, ranging from the smallest Asian short-clawed otter to the largest sea otters. These charismatic creatures are known for their playful behavior, often seen sliding down muddy slopes or juggling rocks.

When it comes to their habitat, otters are found in a wide range of environments, from freshwater rivers and lakes to coastal areas. They are excellent swimmers and have adapted well to their aquatic lifestyle. Otters build dens near water sources and are skilled at catching fish, their primary food source.

In this blog post, we have only scratched the surface of the vast world of otters. Stay tuned for more exciting articles, as we delve into the lives of other fascinating animals. And don’t forget, we already have a detailed article featuring over 155 different animal species, so make sure to check it out!

History of Otter

Otters are fascinating creatures that have been around for millions of years. They belong to the family of mammals known as Mustelidae, which also includes animals like weasels and badgers. Otters have a long history and have adapted to various habitats across the globe.

The earliest known otter species dates back to the Miocene epoch, around 23 million years ago. Fossil evidence suggests that these early otters had a more weasel-like appearance and lived in freshwater environments. As time went on, otters evolved and diversified, adapting to different habitats such as rivers, lakes, and coastal areas.

In ancient times, otters were highly valued for their fur, which was used for clothing and accessories. This led to overhunting and a decline in otter populations around the world. However, in the modern era, many countries have implemented protective measures to preserve otters and their habitats.

Today, otters continue to play a crucial role in ecosystems. They are skilled hunters, mainly feeding on fish, crustaceans, and small mammals. Besides being excellent swimmers, otters are also known for their playful nature and can be seen sliding down muddy riverbanks or engaging in social activities with their family groups.

In conclusion, otters have a long and fascinating history. From their ancient ancestors to the present-day species, they have adapted to various environments and provided valuable contributions to ecosystems. As we continue to learn more about these amazing animals, it is important to protect and conserve their habitats to ensure their survival for future generations.

Importance of Otter

Otter animals are very important for maintaining the balance in their ecosystems. They play a vital role in the food chain and help maintain the population of other animals. Otters primarily feed on fish and crustaceans, which helps control their population. If otters were not there, the number of fish and crustaceans could become too high, affecting the ecosystem.

Otters also help in maintaining the health of rivers and wetlands. They are known as a keystone species, which means that their presence or absence can significantly impact the environment. Otters dig burrows near the water, which helps in improving the water quality. These burrows create shelter for other aquatic animals such as amphibians, insects, and small fish. Additionally, otters also help in controlling invasive species that could harm the ecological balance of their habitat.

Furthermore, otters are indicators of the overall health of the environment. If the habitat is polluted or degraded, otter populations will decline. By monitoring otter populations, scientists can understand the health of rivers and wetlands. Protecting otters and their habitats not only ensures their survival but also contributes to the well-being of other species and the overall health of the ecosystem.

In summary, otters are essential for maintaining the balance in their ecosystems. They control the population of fish and crustaceans, improve water quality, provide shelter to other animals, and indicate the health of the environment. Protecting otters and their habitats is crucial for the well-being of various species and the overall ecological balance of rivers and wetlands.

Amazing Facts About Otter

1. Otters are mammals that belong to the weasel family, known as Mustelidae.
2. They are excellent swimmers and spend a lot of their time in water.
3. Otters have a streamlined body shape and webbed feet, which make them very agile in the water.
4. There are around 13 different species of otters found worldwide, including the sea otter, river otter, and giant otter.
5. Otters can be found in various habitats, such as oceans, rivers, lakes, and wetlands.
6. Sea otters are the largest species and can weigh up to 100 pounds (45 kilograms), while smaller otter species weigh around 10-20 pounds (4.5-9 kilograms).
7. Otters have thick fur that consists of two layers, which helps to keep them warm in cold water.
8. They use tools, such as rocks or shells, to open shells and hunt for food.
9. Otters are carnivorous and mainly feed on fish, crustaceans, and amphibians.
10. They have an incredible sense of touch, with sensitive paws used for detecting prey in murky water.
11. Otters have excellent eyesight both in and out of the water.
12. They are very playful animals and are often seen sliding down riverbanks or rolling around in the water.
13. Otters are highly social and usually live in family groups called “rafts.” These rafts can consist of several otters.
14. They communicate through a variety of vocalizations, including chirping, growling, or whistling.
15. Otters have a special grooming routine to keep their fur clean. They spend a lot of time grooming, which helps to trap air between their fur layers for insulation.

Can we keep Otter as our Pet?

Keeping an otter as a pet may seem like a fun idea, but it is important to understand that otters are wild animals and should not be kept as pets. Otters are not suitable pets for many reasons, including their unique needs and the fact that they are protected species in many places.

Firstly, otters have specific requirements that are difficult to provide in a home environment. They need plenty of space to swim and play, and they eat a specialized diet of fish and other aquatic creatures. Meeting these needs can be challenging, especially for individuals who do not have access to large bodies of water or a steady supply of appropriate food.

Moreover, it is crucial to recognize that otters are protected animals in many countries. This means they cannot be legally kept as pets, as they are protected by laws that prohibit their capture or possession. These laws exist for good reasons – to safeguard the health and well-being of the otters themselves, as well as to preserve their natural habitats and prevent their extinction.

Unfortunately, some species of otters are already facing the threat of extinction due to various factors such as habitat destruction, pollution, and illegal hunting. It is our responsibility to protect these vulnerable creatures and maintain a balance in the ecosystem. Rather than keeping otters as pets, it is better to appreciate them in their natural habitats or support conservation efforts that aim to preserve their existence for future generations.

In conclusion, otters should not be kept as pets. They require specialized care and are protected species in many countries. By respecting their natural habitats and supporting conservation initiatives, we can contribute to the well-being of otters and help prevent their extinction.

Size of Otter

Otters are small to medium-sized mammals known for their playful nature and sleek bodies. They belong to the weasel family, and there are 13 different species of otters found around the world. The size of an otter can vary depending on the species, but on average, they measure between 2 to 5 feet in length, including their tail.

The smallest otter species, like the Asian small-clawed otter, generally grow to be about 2 to 3 feet long. These otters are usually found in Southeast Asia and are renowned for their ability to use their paws like hands. On the other hand, the largest otter species, called the giant otter, can reach lengths of around 4 to 5 feet. These incredible creatures inhabit the rivers and lakes of South America’s rainforests.

In addition to their body length, otters can weigh anywhere between 10 and 100 pounds, depending on the species. The smallest otters, like the Asian small-clawed otter, weigh between 2 and 11 pounds. Conversely, the largest otter species, the giant otter, can weigh up to 100 pounds! They have webbed feet and a long, muscular tail that helps them swim gracefully through the water.

In conclusion, otters come in various sizes, with the smallest species measuring about 2 to 3 feet long and weighing around 2 to 11 pounds, while the largest species can reach lengths of 4 to 5 feet and weigh up to 100 pounds. No matter their size, otters are known for their playful and social behavior, spending a great deal of time in water habitats such as rivers, lakes, and even oceans.

Habitat of Otter

An otter’s habitat is usually located near water bodies like rivers, lakes, and marshes. They can be found in both fresh and saltwater environments. Otters are excellent swimmers and spend most of their time in the water. Their cozy homes, called dens, are often found along the banks of rivers or on small islands.

The first paragraph describes the general habitat of otters. It explains that otters live near water bodies such as rivers, lakes, and marshes. They are adaptable creatures and can survive in both freshwater and saltwater environments. The main characteristic of their habitat is the presence of water, as otters primarily live and hunt in the water.

The second paragraph focuses on the specific details of an otter’s den. It mentions that otters have cozy homes called dens. These dens are usually located along the banks of rivers or on small islands. The purpose of the den is to provide a safe and secure space where otters can rest, sleep, and raise their young. The choice of location near water allows for easy access to their main source of food.

The third paragraph emphasizes the swimming abilities of otters and highlights their affinity towards water. It states that otters are excellent swimmers and spend most of their time in the water. The mention of their swimming skills further confirms why they choose habitats near water bodies. The final sentence reiterates that otters are well-suited to live in an environment that provides easy access to their primary needs, such as water and food.

Evolution of Otter

The otter, a wonderful creature found in various places around the world, has an interesting evolutionary story. Over millions of years, otters have adapted and changed, becoming well-adapted to their environments.

In the beginning, otters were not the swift swimmers and clever hunters we know today. They were actually part of a larger group of animals called Mustelids, which includes weasels and badgers. Otters started their journey as small, land-dwelling creatures. As time went on, some of them ventured into the water, discovering it to be a wonderful place to hunt for food.

As otters spent more time in the water, they started to change. Their bodies became sleek and streamlined, perfect for swimming through the rivers and oceans. Their fur also became waterproof, helping them to stay warm and dry while splashing around in the water. In addition, their webbed feet evolved, enabling them to paddle swiftly and dive deep to catch delicious fish and other aquatic animals. Otters even developed a nifty trick of using rocks to crack open shellfish, showing how intelligent and adaptable they became.

Today, otters can be found in rivers, lakes, and oceans all over the world. They have become masters of the water, gliding effortlessly through their aquatic habitats. They have truly evolved into incredible creatures, perfectly suited for their own special environments. Next time you see an otter, take a moment to appreciate its fascinating journey from a small, land-dwelling creature to a skilled swimmer and hunter of the waters.

Classification of Otter

Otters are small to medium-sized mammals that belong to the family Mustelidae. This family includes other animals such as weasels, skunks, and badgers. Otters are known for their playful nature and love for water. They are excellent swimmers and have webbed feet that help them navigate through rivers, lakes, and coastal areas.

There are 13 different species of otters classified under the family Mustelidae. Some common species include the Eurasian otter, North American river otter, and the sea otter. These species can be further divided into two groups: the marine otters and the freshwater otters. Marine otters, like the sea otter, spend most of their time in saltwater habitats such as the ocean. Freshwater otters, like the Eurasian otter, prefer freshwater environments like rivers, lakes, and wetlands.

Otters also have distinctive physical characteristics that help them adapt to their habitats. They have long, streamlined bodies with short legs and a strong tail. Their thick fur helps keep them warm in cold water. Otters have sharp teeth and claws, which they use for catching and eating their prey. They mainly feed on fish, shellfish, and other aquatic creatures.

In conclusion, otters are fascinating creatures that belong to the family Mustelidae. With their playful nature, love for water, and excellent swimming skills, they have captured the hearts of many. They come in different species, each adapted to either marine or freshwater environments. Otters are remarkable animals that have adapted unique physical characteristics to survive and thrive in the diverse habitats they inhabit.

Types of Otter

1. Sea Otter: Known for its dense fur and excellent swimming skills, sea otters live in coastal waters. They use rocks to crack open shells and eat seafood, and they often hold hands while sleeping to prevent drifting away from each other.

2. River Otter: Found near rivers, lakes, and wetlands, river otters are playful and skillful swimmers. They have long, streamlined bodies and use their strong tails to propel through water. River otters mainly consume fish and amphibians.

3. Giant Otter: Native to South America, the giant otter is the largest of all otter species. With a length of around 6 feet, they have webbed feet and sharp claws. They’re highly social animals, living in family groups and communicating through various vocalizations.

4. Asian Small-Clawed Otter: These small otters are native to Asia and have the smallest claws among all otter species. They live in rivers and wetlands, and their diet consists of crustaceans, mollusks, and amphibians. Known for their dexterity, they use their nimble paws to catch prey.

5. North American River Otter: Found across North America, these otters have adapted to both freshwater and marine environments. They have thick fur to insulate against cold temperatures and are excellent hunters, feeding on fish, crayfish, and small mammals.

6. Smooth-Coated Otter: As the name implies, these otters have sleek coats that repel water. Native to Asia, they inhabit rivers, swamps, and estuaries. They are very agile swimmers and can often be seen sliding down muddy banks for fun.

7. African Clawless Otter: Living in sub-Saharan Africa, African clawless otters do not have claws on their front paws. They mainly eat fish but are also known to consume crustaceans and small reptiles. Their powerful tails help them swim swiftly.

8. European Otter: Found in Europe, these otters are known for their excellent fishing skills. They have sharp teeth and powerful jaws to catch and consume a variety of aquatic prey, including fish, frogs, and even birds.

9. Neotropical Otter: Inhabiting parts of South America, these otters are usually found in freshwater habitats. They have unique facial markings and are known for their powerful swimming abilities. Neotropical otters mainly feed on fish, crabs, and small rodents.

10. Hairy-Nosed Otter: Also known as the small-clawed otter, this species is found in Southeast Asia. They have partially webbed feet and are active both during the day and at night. Their diet includes fish, frogs, shellfish, and small birds.

Geographical Presence of Otter

Otters are typically found in various regions around the world, such as North America, Europe, Asia, and parts of Africa. They mainly live in bodies of freshwater, including rivers, lakes, and marshes. Some species of otters, like the sea otter, can also be found in coastal areas of the Pacific Ocean. These regions provide the otters with the suitable habitat they need for hunting, shelter, and raising their young.

However, there are also regions where otters are not commonly found. They are generally absent from desert areas and the colder regions near the poles. Otters require a sufficient food supply, which may be limited in these types of landscapes. Additionally, they need access to freshwater, which may not be available in arid or frozen regions. Therefore, otters are not typically found in places like the Sahara Desert or the Arctic.

Overall, otters are amazing creatures that can adapt to a range of environments. Their presence is most common in regions where freshwater sources are abundant and provide all the necessary resources for their survival. Although they may not be found in every corner of the world, otters continue to thrive in various habitats, delighting us with their playful nature and distinct appearance.

Scientific Name of Otter

The scientific name of the otter animal is “Lutra lutra.” Otters belong to the family Mustelidae, which includes other creatures like weasels, badgers, and minks. These aquatic animals are well-known for their playful nature and love for water habitats.

Otters are carnivorous mammals that can be found in various parts of the world, including North America, Europe, and Asia. They have long, slim bodies with short legs, adapted for easy swimming in rivers, lakes, and coastal areas. Their dense fur helps to keep them warm, even in cold waters.

With webbed paws and a streamlined body, otters are excellent swimmers and divers. They also have sharp claws for catching prey like fish, frogs, and crayfish. Otters are known for their ability to use tools, such as rocks, to crack open shells or break apart food.

These animals are social creatures, often living in family groups called “rafts.” They communicate through various vocalizations, including chirps, whistles, and growls. Otters are quite intelligent and curious, known for their playful behavior, sliding down slopes or wrestling with one another.

The scientific name, Lutra lutra, gives us insight into the unique characteristics of these fascinating creatures. They are well-adapted to their aquatic lifestyle, displaying remarkable swimming skills and playful behavior. Otters are a wonderful example of the rich diversity of life on Earth.

Diet of Otter

Otters, small aquatic mammals, have a diverse and interesting diet. Their food mainly consists of fish, but they also eat other aquatic creatures like amphibians, birds, and even small mammals. Otters are skillful hunters and have been known to consume up to 20% of their body weight in a day.

Fish is the primary source of nutrition for otters. Depending on their species and habitat, otters may consume a variety of fish, such as salmon, trout, and catfish. Otters are excellent swimmers and use their webbed feet to chase and catch fish underwater. They have specialized teeth that enable them to efficiently devour their prey. Otters are agile hunters and can quickly navigate underwater to capture their food.

In addition to fish, otters also have a taste for other aquatic animals. They consume amphibians like frogs and toads, as well as birds that dwell near the water. Crustaceans, mollusks, and small mammals may also be part of an otter’s diet, depending on the otter species and its surroundings. This diverse diet allows otters to adapt to various environments and ensures they can find food even when fish populations are low.

In summary, otters are skilled hunters with a varied diet. Their main food source is fish, but they also consume other aquatic animals such as amphibians, birds, and small mammals. Their ability to adapt to different environments and their agility underwater make them successful predators.

Locomotion of Otter

Otters are nimble creatures that move through the water with ease. They use their strong tails to propel themselves forward, pushing against the water to move swiftly. Whether they are swimming or diving, otters are known for their graceful movements in the water. They also have webbed feet, which act like paddles, helping them to navigate through the water smoothly. These adaptations make otters excellent swimmers, allowing them to catch fish and other prey underwater.

On land, otters may seem a bit clumsy compared to their water skills. However, they are still quite agile and can move swiftly. They use their short legs and sharp claws to walk or run on land. When they are in a hurry, otters can even slide on their bellies, making use of their sleek fur to glide across the ground. This sliding motion not only aids their movement, but it also looks like they are having a lot of fun!

In summary, otters are amazing animals when it comes to locomotion. They are superb swimmers thanks to their strong tails and webbed feet, allowing them to move swiftly through the water. On land, they might not be as proficient, but they can still walk, run, and even slide on their bellies. Otters definitely know how to get around in their own unique and entertaining way!

Social and Sexual Behaviour of Otter

Otters are fascinating creatures known for their interesting social and sexual behavior. They belong to the weasel family and live near water bodies like rivers, lakes, and oceans. Otters are very playful and love to interact with their social groups, called rafts.

Otters are highly social animals and live in large, close-knit families. These families consist of a mother, her offspring, and sometimes other adult otters. They communicate through various sounds like chirps, whistles, and growls. Otters socialize by playing, grooming, and even hugging each other. They work together as a team to hunt for food, protect their territory, and care for the young ones.

When it comes to sexual behavior, otters are quite unique. They have a mating season, which varies depending on the species and location. During this time, male otters compete for female attention by displaying their strength and skills. Once a pair has formed, they engage in extensive play and even hold hands while sleeping to prevent drifting apart in the water. Female otters give birth to one to six pups and take care of them until they are old enough to survive on their own.

In conclusion, otters are social animals that live in close-knit families and have fascinating social and sexual behaviors. They communicate with various sounds and show affection through playful interactions. During mating season, otters compete for partners and form strong bonds. Otters are truly amazing creatures with a unique way of living and thriving in their watery habitats.

Reproduction and Lifecycle of Otter

Otters are fascinating creatures with a unique life cycle. They reproduce by mating, giving birth, and raising their offspring. Let’s explore the different stages of an otter’s life.

The life cycle of an otter begins with its parents mating. Male and female otters come together during the mating season, typically in spring or early summer. They engage in playful courtship rituals, such as chasing and wrestling in the water. Once they mate, the female otter becomes pregnant.

After a gestation period of about two months, the female otter gives birth to usually one to four pups, although sometimes they can have as many as six. The newborn otters are very small, blind, and rely solely on their mother for survival. She takes great care of them, providing milk and protective shelter in the form of a den near the water.

As the otter pups grow, they start venturing out of the den and learning important life skills from their parents. They are taught how to swim, hunt, and find food. Otters primarily eat fish and crustaceans, and the parents teach their young ones how to catch their own meals. This period of learning and development lasts for several months until the young otters become independent enough to find their own territories.

In summary, otters have a fascinating life cycle. It starts with their parents mating, followed by the birth of small and helpless pups. The parents take care of their young ones, teaching them important skills until they are ready to explore the world on their own.

Threats to Otter

Otters face several threats that can harm their population and survival in the wild. One major threat is habitat destruction. As humans expand cities and industries, otters lose their natural homes. The destruction of wetlands, rivers, and coastal areas limits the available space for otters to hunt, roam, and raise their young. Without suitable habitats, otters struggle to find food and shelter, which puts their survival at risk.

Another threat to otters is pollution. Humans often release harmful chemicals into water sources, such as rivers and lakes. These pollutants can contaminate the otters’ habitat and food supply, leading to illness and death. For example, pesticide runoffs from agricultural fields can poison the fish that otters rely on for food. Additionally, oil spills in oceans and seas can coat otters’ fur, making it difficult for them to swim, hunt, and stay warm.

Climate change poses yet another threat to otters. Rising global temperatures and changing weather patterns affect their natural environment. For instance, changes in water temperatures can disrupt the availability of fish, the otters’ main food source. Extreme weather events like hurricanes and floods can also destroy otter habitats and displace the animals from their homes. As climate change intensifies, these challenges become more pronounced and can lead to a decline in otter populations.

In order to protect otters and prevent their numbers from dwindling, it is crucial to focus on conservation efforts. This includes preserving and restoring their habitats by reducing deforestation and protecting wetlands. Additionally, strict regulations on pollution and waste management can help prevent contamination of their habitats. Lastly, addressing climate change through sustainable practices and reducing greenhouse gas emissions is essential to secure a healthier future for otters and other vulnerable species.

Population of Otter

The population of otter animals is estimated to be approximately 13 million worldwide. These delightful creatures can mainly be found near rivers, lakes, and coastal areas. They are known for their playful behavior and love for water, as they are strong swimmers.

In the past few decades, due to habitat destruction and pollution, the otter population has faced significant challenges. This has led to the extinction of some otter species, such as the giant otter and the sea otter. The destruction of their natural habitats, including water pollution and the fragmentation of rivers, has made it difficult for them to find enough food and suitable places to live.

Moreover, illegal hunting and the fur trade have also contributed to the decline in otter populations. Unfortunately, these factors combined have pushed several otter species to the brink of extinction. It is crucial for humans to take action to protect the remaining otter populations, preserve their habitats, and prevent the illegal trade of otter fur, so that future generations can continue to enjoy the presence of these charming and intelligent creatures.

Conclusion

In the vast and diverse animal kingdom, otters stand out with their remarkable traits and fascinating behavior. Found in various parts of the world, including rivers, lakes, and even coastal areas, these aquatic mammals have a rich history that dates back to ancient times.

With more than a dozen species, otters come in different sizes and have distinct characteristics. The smallest otter, the Asian small-clawed otter, measures only about 2 feet in length, while the giant otter can reach a whopping 6 feet! These adorable creatures are known for their playful nature, incredible swimming skills, and their ability to use tools, such as rocks, to crack open shellfish.

Otters thrive in various habitats, from freshwater rivers and ponds to coastal regions and marshes. Their dense fur coats keep them warm in the water, and their webbed feet enable them to swim swiftly. These intelligent animals are highly adaptable and have managed to survive in diverse environments despite threats to their habitats from human activities.

In conclusion, otters are fascinating animals that have captivated humans for centuries. Their unique characteristics, from their playful behavior to their impressive swimming abilities, make them remarkable creatures to observe. However, it is crucial to remember the importance of protecting their habitats and ensuring their survival in our ever-changing world. These adorable creatures, like many other animals, deserve our respect and conservation efforts, for they are an integral part of the wondrous tapestry of our planet’s biodiversity.

Frequently Asked Questions about Otter (FAQ’s)

Q: What is an otter?
A: An otter is a semiaquatic mammal that belongs to the weasel family.

Q: Where do otters live?
A: Otters can be found in freshwater habitats like rivers, lakes, and wetlands, as well as coastal marine environments.

Q: How many otter species are there?
A: There are 13 recognized species of otters, including the sea otter, river otter, and giant otter.

Q: What do otters eat?
A: Otters are carnivorous and primarily feed on fish, but they also consume amphibians, crustaceans, and small mammals.

Q: How do otters catch their prey?
A: Otters are excellent swimmers and divers, and they catch their prey using their sharp claws and teeth.

Q: How do otters communicate with each other?
A: Otters communicate through various vocalizations like whistles, chirps, and growls, as well as through scent marking and body postures.

Q: How long do otters live?
A: The lifespan of otters varies by species, but on average, they live 10 to 15 years.

Q: Do otters build their own homes?
A: Otters create burrows or dens in riverbanks, seashores, or marshes to shelter and rear their young.

Q: Are otters social animals?
A: Yes, otters are typically social animals and can often be found in family groups called “rafts.”

Q: Can otters mate for life?
A: While some otter species may form monogamous pairs, others have more flexible mating systems.

Q: Are otters good swimmers?
A: Otters are highly adapted for swimming, with their streamlined bodies, webbed feet, and long tails that act as rudders.

Q: Are otters endangered species?
A: Some otter species, like the sea otter and giant otter, are endangered due to habitat loss, pollution, and poaching.

Q: Can otters sleep on land?
A: Otters can sleep on land, but they are most comfortable sleeping in the water or on rafts made of vegetation.

Q: Are otters playful animals?
A: Yes, otters are known for their playful behavior, often seen sliding down slopes, playing with objects, and engaging in social play with other otters.

Q: Can otters groom themselves?
A: Otters have dense fur that traps air to keep them buoyant and warm. They groom their fur meticulously, removing dirt and debris using their teeth and claws.

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