Smooth Green Snake: History, Facts, Size, Habitat, Classification & Much More

By Morgan Gutierrez

Smooth Green Snake: History, Facts, Size, Habitat, Classification

Hey there, animal enthusiasts! Today, we are diving into the fascinating world of the Smooth Green Snake. This little reptile has a captivating history, interesting facts, a unique size, diverse habitat, and a special place in the animal classification system.

The history of the Smooth Green Snake goes way back. It can be traced back to ancient times when dinosaurs roamed the Earth. These snakes have been around for millions of years and have adapted to survive in different environments. They are an important part of our planet’s history and evolution.

Now, let’s learn some cool facts about the Smooth Green Snake. Did you know that they are not actually green when they’re born? These snakes are born with a grayish-brown color, but as they grow older, their vibrant green scales start to show. Another interesting fact is that they are not venomous and rely on their incredible camouflage skills to hide from predators.

In terms of size, Smooth Green Snakes are quite small compared to other snakes. They typically measure around 14 to 20 inches long. Their slender bodies and bright green color help them blend in with their surroundings, making them difficult to spot.

As for their habitat, Smooth Green Snakes can be found in various parts of North America, including grasslands, forests, and wetlands. They prefer areas with plenty of vegetation and water sources, as these provide them with food and shelter.

In terms of classification, the Smooth Green Snake belongs to the Colubridae family, which includes a wide variety of non-venomous snakes. This family consists of many different species that share similar characteristics, such as their elongated bodies and flexible jaws.

We hope you enjoyed this introduction to the Smooth Green Snake. Stay tuned for our upcoming blog posts, where we will explore more wonderful creatures from the animal kingdom. And remember, if you want to learn about other fascinating animals, we already have an article featuring 155+ animal names. Happy reading!

History of Smooth Green Snake

The smooth green snake is a fascinating creature with a long and interesting history. These snakes can be found in different parts of North America and have been around for thousands of years. The history of the smooth green snake dates back to a time when dinosaurs roamed the earth.

During the time of the dinosaurs, the smooth green snake’s ancestors were already present. They lived in a much different world than we do today, but they were able to adapt and survive in their environment just like their descendants do now. As time went on, these snakes evolved and changed in order to better survive in their surroundings.

In more recent history, humans have also played a role in the lives of smooth green snakes. As the population of humans grew and cities were built, the natural habitats of these snakes started to disappear. This posed a threat to the survival of the species. However, people started to realize the importance of preserving the environment and protecting these unique creatures.

Today, efforts are being made to conserve the smooth green snake and its habitat. These snakes are considered beneficial because they eat insects that can be harmful to crops and gardens. Many people are also fascinated by their vibrant green color and gentle nature. By protecting their habitats and raising awareness about the importance of these snakes, we can ensure that future generations will be able to appreciate and learn from the history of the smooth green snake.

Importance of Smooth Green Snake

The smooth green snake is a very important animal because it plays a vital role in our ecosystem. Firstly, these snakes help to control the population of insects. They like to eat bugs like caterpillars, grasshoppers, and crickets, which can sometimes be pests to farmers. By eating these insects, smooth green snakes help to reduce their numbers and maintain a healthy balance in nature.

Secondly, smooth green snakes are also an important part of the food chain. They provide food for other animals like birds, larger snakes, and even some mammals. These predators rely on smooth green snakes for their survival. Without these snakes, the food chain could be disrupted, leading to an imbalance in the ecosystem.

Lastly, smooth green snakes are also indicators of a healthy environment. They prefer to live in areas with clean water, good air quality, and plenty of vegetation. If these snakes are found in an area, it means that the ecosystem is in good condition. Monitoring the population of these snakes can help scientists assess the overall health of an ecosystem and take necessary measures to protect it.

In conclusion, smooth green snakes are very important for our ecosystem. They help control insect populations, provide food for other animals, and indicate a healthy environment. We should appreciate and protect these snakes to maintain the delicate balance of nature.

Amazing Facts About Smooth Green Snake

1. The Smooth Green Snake is a small species of snake found in North America.
2. It gets its name from its smooth scales and vibrant green coloration.
3. These snakes are relatively slender, measuring about 14-20 inches in length on average.
4. They are non-venomous, meaning their bite is not harmful to humans.
5. Smooth Green Snakes are commonly found in grassy areas, meadows, and open woodlands.
6. They are excellent climbers and can be seen in low shrubs and trees, especially when hunting for food.
7. These snakes are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day and rest at night.
8. Their diet primarily consists of insects, such as grasshoppers, crickets, and caterpillars.
9. Smooth Green Snakes are docile and rarely bite when handled gently.
10. When threatened, they may try to flee or flatten their bodies to appear larger.
11. These snakes are known for their ability to camouflage well with their surroundings, thanks to their green coloration.
12. Smooth Green Snakes have a lifespan of around 4-6 years in the wild.
13. They are oviparous, meaning they lay eggs rather than giving live birth.
14. Females typically lay 3-10 eggs in rotting logs or damp vegetation, where the heat aids in incubation.
15. The Smooth Green Snake plays an important role in the ecosystem by controlling the population of pest insects and serving as prey for larger animals.

Can we keep Smooth Green Snake as our Pet?

The Smooth Green Snake is a beautiful reptile found in North America. Many people are fascinated by this snake and wonder if they can keep it as a pet. However, it is important to remember that wild animals should not be kept as pets. They belong in their natural habitats where they can live freely and interact with other animals of their kind.

Unfortunately, due to various reasons, the Smooth Green Snake is facing the threat of extinction. Loss of habitat, pollution, and illegal capture for the pet trade are some of the reasons behind their decline. This means that their population is decreasing rapidly, and if we don’t take necessary measures to protect them, they may disappear forever.

It is important to remember that even if the Smooth Green Snake was not facing extinction, it would still not be a suitable pet. Snakes require specific habitats, diets, and care that can be difficult to provide in a domestic setting. They are better off in the wild, where they can hunt for their food, explore their environment, and live naturally without any restrictions.

In conclusion, it is not possible or ethical to keep the Smooth Green Snake as a pet. They are facing extinction, and even if they were not, they would require specialized care and habitats that are not suitable for domestic environments. It is important that we respect and protect wild animals, allowing them to live in their natural habitats where they can thrive and contribute to the balance of the ecosystems they belong to.

Size of Smooth Green Snake

The Smooth Green Snake is a small reptile that belongs to the Colubridae family. It is one of the tiniest snakes found in North America. On average, it measures about 14 to 20 inches in length, although some individuals can reach up to 26 inches. For a 6th-grade student like you, try picturing the length of a ruler or a foot-long sub sandwich!

These slim and slender creatures have a body shape that is very long and thin. They are usually bright green in color, which helps them blend well with their surroundings. You might mistake them for a piece of grass as they move swiftly through the vegetation. They have smooth scales that give them their name. These scales provide them with protection and allow them to slide effortlessly through the grass or shrubs.

Although small, Smooth Green Snakes are expert climbers and swimmers. They are found in a variety of habitats, including meadows, marshes, and woods. As they are non-venomous, they feed on insects, spiders, and even small frogs. Due to their tiny size, they are often preyed upon by larger animals such as birds, larger snakes, and mammals.

In conclusion, the Smooth Green Snake is a tiny reptile that measures between 14 to 20 inches in length. Its slender body and smooth, green scales help it move gracefully through the grass and blend with its environment. Although small, these snakes have adapted to their surroundings well and serve an important role in controlling insect populations.

Habitat of Smooth Green Snake

The smooth green snake is a small and slender reptile that can be found in various habitats across North America. These snakes prefer to live in areas that have lots of vegetation, such as fields, meadows, and forests. They tend to be most abundant in areas where there are lots of grasses, shrubs, and low-lying plants.

The habitat of the smooth green snake is very important for its survival. Because of their bright green color, these snakes are able to blend in easily with their surroundings, making them difficult for predators to spot. The thick vegetation provides them with plenty of hiding places and protection from larger animals that might want to eat them.

One important aspect of the smooth green snake’s habitat is the availability of water. These snakes need a water source nearby, such as a pond or stream, as they like to swim and soak in the water to cool off. Having a water source also ensures that they have enough to drink and helps support the growth of the plants they rely on for shelter and food.

In summary, the smooth green snake likes to live in habitats that have lots of vegetation, like fields, meadows, and forests. They need places to hide from predators and blend in with their green color. Having access to water is also crucial for their survival. By understanding the habitat needs of these snakes, we can better protect and conserve their populations in the wild.

Evolution of Smooth Green Snake

The Evolution of Smooth Green Snake (SGS) has been a fascinating journey over millions of years. These enchanting creatures have adapted to survive in various environments, displaying incredible changes in their physical appearance and behavior.

Long ago, the ancestors of SGS were tree-dwelling reptiles with basic colors that helped them blend into their surroundings. As time went on, they ventured down to the ground and developed vibrant green skin, allowing them to camouflage themselves in grassy areas. This color helped them hide from predators and sneak up on their prey, ensuring their survival.

Another remarkable adaptation of the SGS is their long and slender body, which enables them to glide swiftly through the vegetation. Their bodies are covered in smooth scales, allowing for seamless movement. Over generations, their eyes have also evolved to have a keen sense of sight, helping them detect any lurking dangers or potential meals.

The evolution of SGS has not only improved their ability to survive but also increased their chances of reproduction. Males have developed small spurs on their upper lip, helping them to hold onto females during mating. Females, on the other hand, have adapted longer bodies to accommodate an increased number of eggs. These adaptations have ensured the survival of the species and the continuation of their mesmerizing green lineage.

In conclusion, the evolution of Smooth Green Snakes has brought about remarkable changes in their appearance and behavior. From their basic colors to their vibrant green skin, they have shown great adaptability to their surroundings. Their long and slender bodies, smooth scales, and keen eyesight have helped them glide effortlessly while being aware of their environment. These adaptations, along with reproductive changes, have ensured the survival and continuation of these enchanting creatures throughout the years of their evolution.

Classification of Smooth Green Snake

The smooth green snake, also known as the Opheodrys vernalis, is a small and non-venomous reptile. It belongs to the family Colubridae, which includes many species of snakes found all over the world. The smooth green snake is native to North America and can be commonly found in grassy areas, meadows, and forests.

When we talk about the classification of the smooth green snake, we can see that it falls into the following categories: kingdom, phylum, class, order, family, genus, and species. Firstly, it belongs to the kingdom Animalia, which includes all animals. Secondly, it falls under the phylum Chordata, which includes animals with a spinal cord. Next, it is classified under the class Reptilia, which includes reptiles like snakes and lizards. The smooth green snake belongs to the order Squamata, which consists of reptiles with protective scales on their bodies. Moreover, it belongs to the family Colubridae, which consists of many harmless snake species. Lastly, it falls under the genus Opheodrys, which includes various green snake species. Its specific species name is vernalis.

To sum it up, the smooth green snake is a small and harmless reptile that belongs to the family Colubridae. It can be found in grassy areas and forests in North America. Understanding its classification helps scientists and researchers learn more about this fascinating creature and how it fits into the animal kingdom.

Types of Smooth Green Snake

1. The Eastern Smooth Green Snake: This snake is commonly found in eastern regions of North America, mainly in grasslands and forests. It is known for its vibrant green color and slender body, reaching lengths of up to 2 feet. They often hide under rocks or in vegetation to avoid predators.

2. The Western Smooth Green Snake: This type of snake is found in the western parts of North America, particularly in grasslands and open woodlands. It has a similar appearance to the Eastern Smooth Green Snake, with its bright green color and slender build. They primarily feed on insects and small invertebrates.

3. The Northern Smooth Green Snake: As the name suggests, this species is found in northern regions of North America, including Canada and some northern states. It prefers areas with tall grasses and wetlands. Its diet consists mainly of insects, spiders, and small invertebrates.

4. The Southern Smooth Green Snake: This snake is commonly found in the southern parts of North America, such as Texas, Louisiana, and Florida. It inhabits grasslands, meadows, and marshes. The Southern Smooth Green Snake feeds on insects, spiders, and sometimes small frogs.

5. The Rough Green Snake: Although not as smooth as other green snakes, the Rough Green Snake is still considered a popular type. It can be found in various regions of North America, including forests, marshes, and gardens. This snake is docile and harmless to humans, primarily consuming insects and spiders.

6. The Smooth Swamp Snake: This snake is found in swampy areas of North America, primarily in the southeastern states. While it has a similar green color to other smooth green snakes, it has a more robust body and is adapted to live in water. Its diet consists of small fish, tadpoles, and frogs.

7. The Prairie Smooth Green Snake: This species inhabits prairies and grasslands of North America, particularly in the central parts of the continent. It is known for its slender build and bright green color, providing excellent camouflage among vegetation. The Prairie Smooth Green Snake feeds on insects, spiders, and small invertebrates.

8. The Smooth Green Snakelet: This type of snake is the smallest of the smooth green snake family, measuring only a few inches in length. It is found in various regions of North America, such as wetlands and grassy areas. The snakelet primarily feeds on small insects and invertebrates.

9. The Smooth Green Grass Snake: This snake is commonly found in grasslands and meadows of North America, as well as some parts of Europe. It has a vibrant green color that blends well with its surroundings. The Smooth Green Grass Snake feeds on various insects, small frogs, and lizards.

10. The Smooth Green Vine Snake: Although not a true smooth green snake, this snake is often referred to as such due to its green color and slender body. It is found in Central and South America, mainly in tropical rainforests. The snake is arboreal, spending most of its time in trees, and preys on small vertebrates and insects.

Geographical Presence of Smooth Green Snake

The Smooth Green Snake can be found in the central and eastern parts of North America. These regions include parts of the United States, such as the Great Lakes region, the Midwest, and parts of the Northeast. They are commonly seen in areas with open grasslands, meadows, and forests as they prefer habitats with plenty of vegetation and cover. These snakes are known for their bright green color, which helps them blend in with their surroundings.

However, there are certain regions where the Smooth Green Snake is not found. These include the western parts of North America, such as the Rocky Mountains and the Pacific Northwest. They are also not found in the southern parts of the United States, including states like Texas, Arizona, and Florida. These regions have different snake species and habitats that may not be suitable for the Smooth Green Snake.

In summary, the Smooth Green Snake is found in the central and eastern regions of North America, including parts of the Great Lakes, Midwest, and Northeast. They prefer habitats with lots of vegetation and are commonly found in open grasslands, meadows, and forests. However, they are not found in the western and southern parts of the United States, including the Rocky Mountains, the Pacific Northwest, and states like Texas, Arizona, and Florida.

Scientific Name of Smooth Green Snake

The scientific name of the Smooth Green Snake is Opheodrys vernalis. This snake belongs to the Colubridae family and is commonly found in North America. It is known for its vibrant green color, which helps it blend in with its surroundings.

The Smooth Green Snake is a non-venomous reptile that can grow up to 2 feet in length. It has a slender body and a smooth, shiny skin, giving it its name. This snake is usually found in grassy habitats, such as fields and meadows, where it can easily hide among the vegetation.

This snake primarily feeds on insects, such as grasshoppers and crickets. It is a harmless species and is often kept as a pet by reptile enthusiasts. The Smooth Green Snake plays an important role in the ecosystem by controlling populations of pests like insects.

In conclusion, the Smooth Green Snake, scientifically known as Opheodrys vernalis, is a non-venomous reptile found in North America. It has a vibrant green color and lives in grassy habitats. This snake is harmless and feeds on insects, contributing to the natural balance of its ecosystem.

Diet of Smooth Green Snake

The diet of a smooth green snake mainly consists of insects, like grasshoppers, crickets, and spiders. These tiny creatures are their favorite tasty treats! The smooth green snake uses its long, sticky tongue to catch them. It flicks its tongue in and out, picking up the insect’s scent in the air. Once it detects the smell, the snake moves swiftly to capture its prey.

When it comes to eating, the smooth green snake is quick and efficient. It grabs the insect with its sharp teeth and swallows it whole. Since the snake is quite small – measuring around 14 to 20 inches long – it usually eats insects that are smaller than itself. It’s like having a bite-sized snack for them! This type of snake is not venomous and doesn’t constrict its prey like some other snakes do. It simply enjoys feasting on a variety of bugs.

In order to survive, the smooth green snake needs to find enough food. It lives in grassy areas with plenty of vegetation, where insects also love to hang out. This way, it can easily find its next meal without having to travel too far. The smooth green snake’s specialized diet helps maintain the balance of nature by controlling insect populations. So, next time you spot a grasshopper or a cricket, remember that it might be on the menu for a smooth green snake!

Locomotion of Smooth Green Snake

The smooth green snake moves in a special way called locomotion. They wiggle their bodies from side to side, which helps them to move forward. When they wiggle, their scales rub against the ground, creating enough friction to push themselves forward. It is like when we slide on a slippery surface, but without actually sliding. This type of movement is called serpentine locomotion.

The smooth green snake is very good at climbing trees and moving through plants. They use their long, slender bodies to slither between branches and leaves. They don’t have any legs, so they rely on their muscles and scales to navigate their surroundings. This allows them to move silently and smoothly, making it easier for them to catch their prey and escape from predators. So, next time you see a smooth green snake, watch closely as it gracefully moves using its amazing serpentine locomotion!

Social and Sexual Behaviour of Smooth Green Snake

The smooth green snake is a small creature that lives in the grasslands and forests of North America. This snake has interesting social behavior, which means how it interacts with other snakes. Unlike some snakes that are solitary, smooth green snakes often live together in groups called colonies. They communicate with each other by rubbing their bodies together or touching their tongues. This helps them build strong relationships and work together to find food and protect themselves from predators. Sometimes, they even share their burrows with other snake species, like the red-bellied snake.

When it comes to sexual behavior, smooth green snakes are quite unique. Like many other snake species, they lay eggs rather than giving birth to live babies. The female snake will lay a clutch of eggs, usually in a hidden spot like a rotting log or under a pile of leaves. The eggs need to be kept warm in order to hatch, so the female will coil her body around them for protection. It takes about two to three weeks for the eggs to hatch, and then the baby snakes are on their own, having to find food and shelter to survive.

Overall, smooth green snakes are social creatures that like to live in groups. They communicate with each other and even share their homes with other snakes. When it comes to reproduction, the female lays eggs and protects them until they hatch. Smooth green snakes are fascinating animals that have developed interesting behaviors to survive and thrive in their habitats.

Reproduction and Lifecycle of Smooth Green Snake

The reproduction and life cycle of the Smooth Green Snake is fascinating. Let’s explore their life journey in three paragraphs.

The first stage of the Smooth Green Snake’s life is the reproduction phase. Breeding typically occurs during the months of May and June when the weather is warmer. During this time, male snakes will engage in “combat dances” in order to win the attention of a female. These dances involve intertwining their bodies while flicking their tongues and vibrating their tails. Once a male successfully impresses a female, they will mate. The females have the ability to store the male’s sperm for several months before the eggs are fertilized.

After mating, the female Smooth Green Snake will find a suitable location to lay her eggs. This is usually a hole in the ground or under a log. She will then deposit around 5-12 small, elongated eggs into the nest. The eggs have a leathery texture and are about the size of a grape. Unlike some other snake species, the Smooth Green Snake does not provide any parental care. The female will leave the eggs to develop and hatch on their own.

The final stage in the life cycle of the Smooth Green Snake is the hatching of the eggs. It takes approximately 4-6 weeks for the eggs to hatch. Once the hatchlings emerge, they are fully independent and equipped to survive on their own. They are similar in appearance to adult Smooth Green Snakes but much smaller, usually measuring around 6-9 inches in length. These young snakes will start their own journey, looking for food and hiding places. As they grow, they shed their skin periodically until they reach adulthood. And so, the life cycle of the Smooth Green Snake continues.

Threats to Smooth Green Snake

The smooth green snake is a wonderful creature that sadly faces many threats in its environment. One major threat is the loss of its natural habitat. As humans continue to develop and build new things, forests and meadows where the smooth green snake lives are being destroyed. This means that the snake has fewer places to hide and find food, making it harder for them to survive.

Another threat to the smooth green snake is the use of pesticides. Pesticides are chemicals that are sprayed on plants to kill insects. However, when the smooth green snake eats insects that have been exposed to these pesticides, they can become very sick or even die. This is a big problem because the snake plays a crucial role in the ecosystem by keeping the population of insects under control.

Lastly, the smooth green snake is also preyed upon by other animals. Birds and larger snakes see the smooth green snake as food and will eat them if given the chance. This puts further pressure on the snake’s population, making it more difficult for it to thrive.

In conclusion, the smooth green snake faces many threats to its survival. Loss of habitat, pesticides, and predators all contribute to the challenges it must overcome. It is important for us as humans to protect the natural habitats of these snakes and be mindful of the chemicals we use in order to ensure the survival and well-being of the smooth green snake and other important species in our ecosystem.

Population of Smooth Green Snake

The population of the Smooth Green Snake animal is not very well known, but it is estimated that there are around 100,000 to 500,000 of them in the world. These snakes are found primarily in North America, specifically in areas with lots of trees and vegetation. They are known for their bright green color and smooth scales, which help them blend in with their surroundings.

If, however, the Smooth Green Snake were to become extinct, it would mean that this species no longer exists in the world. This could be caused by a variety of factors, such as habitat loss, pollution, or even the introduction of non-native species. Extinction is a serious problem because once a species is gone, it is gone forever. It is important to protect and conserve these animals to ensure that they can continue to thrive in their natural habitats.

In conclusion, the population of the Smooth Green Snake is estimated to be between 100,000 and 500,000. If this species were to go extinct, it would be a great loss to the biodiversity of our planet. It is crucial that we take action to preserve and protect these beautiful snakes and their natural habitats.

Conclusion

In the animal kingdom, every creature is fascinating and important, and one such creature is the smooth green snake. These slender reptiles are a sight to behold, with their vibrant green color and smooth scales. Despite their name, these snakes can vary in color from yellowish-green to dark green, making them an intriguing species to study.

Smooth green snakes can be found in a variety of habitats across North America, such as grassy areas, wetlands, and forests. These non-venomous snakes are expert climbers and spend a lot of time in trees and shrubs. They are mainly insectivores, feasting on insects such as crickets, grasshoppers, and caterpillars. This makes them beneficial to farmers and gardeners, as they help control pests naturally.

In terms of size, smooth green snakes are relatively small, usually measuring between 15 and 30 inches in length. Despite their modest size, they play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance in their habitats. They are also part of the Colubridae family, which includes various other snake species. By learning about and appreciating these animals, we can deepen our understanding of the natural world and the diverse creatures that call it home.

Frequently Asked Questions about Smooth Green Snake (FAQ’s)

Q: What is a smooth green snake?
A: The smooth green snake is a species of non-venomous snake native to North America.

Q: How big do smooth green snakes get?
A: Smooth green snakes are relatively small, usually growing to a maximum length of around 20 inches.

Q: What color is a smooth green snake?
A: As their name suggests, smooth green snakes are typically bright green in color. However, they can also have a yellow or brownish tint.

Q: Can smooth green snakes change their color?
A: Yes, smooth green snakes have the ability to change their color to blend in with their surroundings. They can become darker or lighter depending on the environment.

Q: What do smooth green snakes eat?
A: Smooth green snakes primarily feed on insects, such as grasshoppers, crickets, and caterpillars.

Q: Where do smooth green snakes live?
A: Smooth green snakes can be found in a variety of habitats, including open grasslands, meadows, forests, and marshes.

Q: Are smooth green snakes endangered?
A: Smooth green snakes are not currently listed as an endangered species, but their populations have been declining due to habitat loss and fragmentation.

Q: Are smooth green snakes aggressive?
A: No, smooth green snakes are generally not aggressive towards humans. They are known to be docile and rarely bite.

Q: Can you keep a smooth green snake as a pet?
A: Yes, smooth green snakes can be kept as pets. However, they require specific care and diet conditions to thrive in captivity.

Q: How long do smooth green snakes live?
A: Smooth green snakes have a relatively short lifespan, usually living for about 5 to 6 years in the wild.

Q: Do smooth green snakes lay eggs?
A: Yes, smooth green snakes are oviparous, meaning they lay eggs. The female snakes lay a clutch of 2 to 11 eggs.

Q: Are smooth green snakes nocturnal?
A: No, smooth green snakes are diurnal, meaning they are most active during the day.

Q: How do smooth green snakes defend themselves against predators?
A: When threatened, smooth green snakes rely on their ability to camouflage and blend into their surroundings. They may also release a foul-smelling musk as a defense mechanism.

Q: Can smooth green snakes swim?
A: Yes, smooth green snakes are good swimmers and are often found near bodies of water.

Q: Are smooth green snakes social animals?
A: Smooth green snakes are typically solitary creatures but may gather in groups during hibernation in order to conserve heat.

Q: Are smooth green snakes beneficial to the ecosystem?
A: Yes, smooth green snakes play a role in insect control as they feed on various pest insects. They are also a food source for larger predators.

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