457 W Allen Ave #117 Another option is to use a lethal trap to kill the opossum, but because of the size and nature of the opossum the type of lethal trap used will also be a danger to any other similarly-sized . Its also important to remember that killing possums is only allowed in certain circumstances. Opossums are incorrectly perceived as unclean and disease-ridden animals. It does not absolutely forbid owning a possum, but it is required that you have a license to take or keep a wild fur-bearing animal including a possum. Opossums can play dead, so even if you see one in your yard that looks like it might be dead, keep a safe distance and continue to monitor it. When it comes to possums, this is definitely not the case. 6 What happens if you get a possum Under Your House? The opossum is one of the most adaptable animals in North America. - Bloodlessly by laying it on the ground and placing a stick across its neck. If youre considering killing possums in California, you should be aware that you may be subject to financial penalties if you do. Toll Free Number: (833) 471-0060 The trapping of common brushtail possums living in buildings is permitted for the purpose of releasing them on the same property or taking them to a registered vet for euthanasia. The species most often encountered, particularly in urban environments is the common brushtail possum (Trichosurus vulpecula). Uncovering the Aroma of Possums, Do Possums Love Celery? Taking possums out of their natural environment is not recommended and should be avoided. Possums are considered a game animal in Alabama, and the state has established annual hunting and trapping seasons. If so, this is most likely the source of the food theyre getting from your property. According to stats reported by the National Wildlife Federation, a single possum can potentially eliminate 4,000 ticks in one week thanks to their extreme self-grooming methods (either crushing or consuming the ticks burrowing in their fur). |. Fish and Wildlife's Lacey Act (18 U.S.C. Protects up to 3,600 sq. The resemble beavers but are more closely related to mice and rats. Killing possums without the proper permit can land you in hot water with the law and can cost you a hefty fine. Possums are a valuable part of the local ecosystem and should be respected and protected. In fact, you are apparently allowed to kill any non-game, fur-bearing animal that is injuring property "at any time and in any manner" in California. A second population was brought into San Jose from Tennessee in 1910 by migrants nostalgic for the wild food of home, and a third population of South Carolina opossums was released into the southern Sierra Nevada after a fur farming venture failed. They are, after all, fur-bearing animals, and some people even eat them. You can take steps to make your property less attractive to possums, such as removing brush and other potential shelters, and keeping food sources, such as pet food or garbage, out of reach. The major problems associated with . Adult opossums are about the size of a cat and can weigh between four and fourteen pounds. If the animal has . Killing possums without a permit is illegal and can lead to serious consequences. These small animals (about the size or half the size of a cat) are quite adorable, but they have been known to find their way into homes and commercial buildings, causing some damage (often to the roof cavities and to plants in gardens). Doing so can result in serious financial penalties. Smaller joeys should come to CWC for treatment. Rest assured, our trappers at Rodent Guys are certified and ready to roll. Are you considering killing a possum in California? These permits are only given out in certain situations and must be obtained prior to the possum being killed. Their fur ranges in color from white to dark grey. They will be able to evaluate and assess the situation and help you find the best options for relocation. It is believed that a humane way to inflict the pest is by poisoning them with cyanides and 1080 (Sodium monofluoroacetate) to cause the least amount of pain possible. Check the trap every day. What Aromas Do Hamsters Dislike? In Oregon, the opossum is considered an invasive species. These strategies will enable you to handle your possum problem without breaking the law. Breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy a leisure walk on your clean patios! Find out what you need to know regarding the proposed rodenticides bans (AB 1788) including the status of the bill AB . While choosing a trap, opt for a live capture one. Fencing and other exclusion methods are likely the best option for solving nuisance wildlife problems. Once you know you have opossums in your yard, you can use some specific and targeted treatment methods to stop them in their tracks and prevent others from coming onto your property. It is important to know the laws and regulations regarding the humane treatment of possums. There is a test required . The trap set up should not be within 150 feet of a permanent or temporary residence due to potential risks. Why Do Animals Take Such a Risk by Jumping in Front of Cars? Failing to do so can result in legal consequences, such as fines and possible jail time. They are forced to trap and kill opossums, because their number grows fats and they are extremely destructive. If you live in California, its important to know that killing possums is illegal. That said, its important to understand the regulations before taking any steps. Before taking any action, its important to understand the legal implications. Licences to trap possums on your property are issued free of charge from your local National Parks and Wildlife Services (NPWS) office. 1. You can use exclusionary methods such as fence installation, or use repellents and deterrents such as motion activated sprinklers, bright lights, and sound devices to discourage possums from entering your property. The Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana) is the only marsupial found in . Though there are risks that others will come. In Australia, there are two types of possums that can be observed: the common bushtail possum and the common ringtail possum. As they have an unusually high need for calcium, they often eat the skeletons of rodents and road kill for a boost. E-mail: admin@cawildlife.org, P.O. On the bright side, all these methods have created employment for the ground crews and skilled hunters over the years. Taking the above clothing precautions, choose a time to walk throughout your property and look for any signs of opossums. Your own repellents can be just as effective and arent dangerous since you wont likely come in contact with the opossums. Discharge of a firearm may be prohibited in some cities and residential areas; check with local law enforcement. In fact, in California, you appear to be allowed to kill any non-gaming, fur-bearing animal that injures property "at any time and in any manner.". Find more information in the links below. You can contact a wildlife rehabilitation organization for help or visit the CDFW website for tips on how to safely and humanely remove possums from your property. For other attractants like gardens or the cozy crawl spaces under your house, you may need to take further steps toward warding off opossums and preventing future infestations. Place the possum inside an an-air-tight container. You may not want to harm kittens or puppies in any possible way. Note: No repellents, toxicants, and fumigants are registered for the control of Possums. Theyre similar in size to a cat or a small dog. If you want to kill a possum in California, you must first obtain a permit from the California Department of Fish & Wildlife. Muskrats ( Ondatra zibethicus) are large, semi-aquatic rodents that spend most of their time in water. Lethal trapping. A Look at Squirrels Habits, Are Squirrels Active in the Rain? Will a 22 kill a possum? Despite having some similar physical traits, opossums are not related to rodents and are actually the only marsupial found in North America. Violating any of these can lead to hefty fines, so its important to be aware of all the regulations before you take any action. California categorizes snakes as game animals. Once you figure out ways to shoot a Possum, an essential thing for you to know is that Possums are tricky! This is largely due to confusions from other trapping and hunting laws that many assume apply to small rodents. Possums can spread diseases and can be a danger to people, so it is important to properly handle them to protect yourself and others. Opossums are known to scratch while theyre looking for food and will make hissing and screeching noises. Injurious species under the U.S. They are not threatened or endangered, nor are they classified as game animals or furbearers. They can help to ensure that the relocation process is done in a humane and ethical manner. Killing these animals without the proper permit is illegal, and can lead to serious fines and even jail time. Depending on the number of animals killed and the severity of the offense, you could face jail time and thousands of dollars in fines. Use a CO2 chamber or inject it. The Virginia opossum ( Didelphis virginiana) is Indiana's only native marsupial, meaning a mammal that raises its young in a pouch. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. Your attic, basement and crawl spaces all offer perfect spots for this, and it can be a nightmare once an opossum has set up camp so close to your home. If you take a possum out of its natural environment, the possum may become disoriented and confused, and may even suffer from dehydration or malnutrition. . Interested in Scheduling? How many ticks can a possum kill in one week? Even if they have taken up residence in your yard, it is often enough to simply make the area inhospitable to them, such as by cleaning the area and removing food sources. Signs of opossums on your property will include trash that has been tampered with, scratch marks on garbage cans, droppings, foul odors, and disappearing pet food (if you keep any outside). Seek medical advice if you develop a sore. Typical habitats include agricultural lands, forest communities, areas with small streams, and wherever humans are. The reasons for this are twofold; firstly, possums are important for pest control, and secondly, killing possums can lead to potential health and safety risks for people, animals, and property. Furthermore, many wildlife removal companies offer guarantees that theyll continue treatments until the problem is resolved. It is important to remember that killing Possums is illegal in California, and can result in serious legal consequences. Life Member, California Rifle and Pistol Association #9 . Young Virginia Opossum Photo by Kim Barker. Finally, this method is incredibly cruel and inhumane. Question: . They are definitive hosts of Equine Protozoan Myeloencephalitis (EPM), micro-organisms that kill horses. It is advised to evacuate the area until it moves, then remove it only after 24 hours. If you do choose to kill a possum in California, you could be risking a hefty fine or even jail time. Properly constructed fences will also keep out other animals and will pay off in the long run since you wont have to invest as much money in pest control. Its important to remember that possums help control the population of harmful rodents and other pests. They eat nectar and berries, leading to a lesser food for the native birds. If you fail to obtain the necessary permits, you may be subject to fines of up to $1,000 and/or up to six months in jail. Exploring the Scents Hamsters Hate Most, Exploring the Meaning of Seeing a Coyote in Native American Culture. It would be far better to shoot the animal, if you must kill it, rather than attempt to poison it. Check the current price. Floridas only marsupial, a mammal having a pouch for carrying the young, is the Virginia opossum. | Updated for 2021Overall Rating: Pros Effective for more than 15 ant species Fast-acting Kills off queen ant and colony Cons May require daily reapplication Can be toxic if ingested More Taurus SC is a concentrated bug killer originally only used by professionals. Possums are protected in NSW and catching possums without a licence is illegal in NSW. Enlisted by growers from his hometown in Mexico, the 26-year-old tended marijuana plants for perhaps as long as a month and a half at a makeshift greenhouse on the outskirts of Lake Los Angeles . They eat mice, rats, snakes, worms, slugs and insects, rotting fruits and vegetables, and even garbage. For these reasons, it is important to understand the laws surrounding possums and their protection in California. Wear protective clothing, like gloves, when handling. In the majority of locations, it is not illegal to trap an opossum. If you need to remove an animal from your home or property, be sure to contact a professional wildlife removal service instead of attempting to do it yourself. But a 3-judge U.S. district appeals court has said it is not illegal to kill a possum in California. If youve heard noises in your attic, carefully check to see if theyve moved their nest there. Because of the number one rule, no relocation of the trapped animals is allowed. Trapping license is required and should be in immediate possession for the trapper to engage in animal trapping. Others find it easy to let the trained dogs hunt them down. A wildlife control expert will target eradication and prevention using tried-and-true practices and top-of-the-line products. The EPA-approved labels for Golden Malrin Fly Killer state that it is "for use around the outside of food processing areas." In particular, the labeling warns that: "It is illegal to use this product with the intention to kill raccoons, skunks, opossums, coyotes, wolves, dogs, cats, or any other non-target species." Possums can be scared away with bright lights, loud noises, or strong smells, such as ammonia. How to Market Your Business with Webinars. We'd expect the laws to be strict in the Golden State, but if anything, they're some of the most lenient in the U.S. You can kill any rattlesnake anywhere in California except for the endangered red diamond. Camouflage the trap with grasses, leaves and twigs. One can use a rifle of 0.22 caliber, or a shotgun loaded with No. Possums need their natural environment in order to survive, so taking them out of their natural habitats could be detrimental to their health and well-being. Sprinkle a layer of flour around the entrance. It is essential to ensure that no person or animal comes into its vicinity. Mongoose. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife has very specific laws in place that require a permit in order to legally kill a possum. What happens if you get a possum Under Your House? The Virginia opossum is a cat-sized mammal with a pointed nose, unfurred, black, leathery ears with white edges; beady eyes; a hind foot with an opposable hallux (big toe); and a naked scaly tail. How to Throw A Horseshoe: Grips, Stance, and Swing 2020? Preferred Habitat. Possums are classified as "nuisance animals" in California and are considered pests, so it is important to use pest control methods that are humane and effective . If youve noticed property damage that is happening over and over again, there is probably an opossum nest nearby. Possums (also called opossums) are strange-looking creatures with white or grey fur and a pointed snout. Inspect your roof for cracks or holes. For example, South Carolina prohibits owning lions as pets, but you can still own a monkey. They are the only marsupial in North America. Wait for the opossum to leave at night. Step 1: Survey Your Property for Damage. Possums are classified as nuisance animals in California and are considered pests, so it is important to use pest control methods that are humane and effective. If youre trying to remove a possum from your property, there are humane ways to do it that dont involve killing the animal. Length ranges from 4 to 6 (much smaller than its cousin species), Fur is lighter in color than other species, ranging from light grey to white, Found in South America throughout Brazil, Bolivia, Argentina and Paraguay. Havahart Critter Ridder 3142. Opossums almost never have rabies, as their low body temperature makes it difficult for the virus to survive. Possums can be carriers of parasites, so it is important to take safety measures when dealing with them. - By euthanization. During the entire act of hunting down Possums, you must take the following precautions as they are potential carriers of deadly diseases. And when neither of these options prevail, they fall into a comatose state in which their bodies temporarily freeze, causing them to appear lifeless. If youre already dealing with an opossum problem, your first step is remediation. After being trapped and removed, they never come back, so there is no chance youre going to have any problem with the same animal once again. How do you get rid of possums in Florida? Box 2022 If you plan on hunting any type of animal, it is important to contact the states Department of Fish and Wildlife to determine what the regulations and laws are. If an opossum dies of dehydration inside the trap, its carcass will attracts other animals and pests and create a host of other pest problems for you. Box 2022 in kill shelters, etc. Burrows in dark, dry sites and/or nests in tree cavities can confirm their presence. It can take 4 to 8 weeks to recover from surgery. Some ideas for bait include dog or cat food, fish, meat, or fruits. Wait for the possum to take the bait and get trapped. Opossums are nocturnal and will leave shortly after sundown to hunt for food. There are many other ways to deter possums from your property, such as using motion activated lights or building a fence. 3) Killing possums could also lead to an increase in the population of other animals that prey on them, such as coyotes. This will include a multi-pronged effort toward releasing the trash and food available to them as well as eradicating them through trapping, repellents, poisons or other methods. Because of their size and activity, you will probably hear the signs of an opossum infestation before you see them. You should only leave the traps out at night since opossums are nocturnal and youll avoid trapping diurnal animals which you arent trying to catch. Give us a call at, Copyright 2022 | All rights reserved by Rodent Guys Gopher & Pest Control. When the animal gets caught, it should be removed immediately. If danger persists, they will show their teeth and make a hissing sound. According to California statutes, opossums are outlawed. Habitats are among vegetation in forests and grassy areas. At night, place the trap either near areas where opossums feed (most likely near your trash cans or garden), or near any nesting area youve been able to find. Repellents can be used to encourage the possums to move away from the area. Animals include Lions, Tigers, Cougars, Wolves, Bears, Monkeys, Marmosets, Lemurs, Cobras, Rattlesnakes, Crocodiles, and Alligators. Owning a pet that's been deemed illegal in California can come with some significant consequences. When it comes to killing possums in California, its important to remember that it is not illegal as long as you obtain the necessary permit from the California Department of Fish & Wildlife. To get a permit, youll need to submit an application to the CDFW. I do think your article was interesting, well done and trying to be a . Rather than killing the possum, it is generally better to call a professional pest control company and have them safely remove the animal from your property. It is also important to remember that taking possums out of their natural environment can cause them extreme stress and can even lead to death. Opossums have grayish-white fur and are about the size of a house cat. So don't be a . These include: Gerbils (although hamsters, mice, rats and Guinea pigs are allowed) While illegal to own in California, Sloths have been known to be owned by private parties. Possums are the host of a number of diseases and parasites, and if you come in contact with one you could be at risk of infection and transmission. The rate at which illegal aliens use these programs in the Golden State is significantly higher than it is in other states, simply . If you do decide to take action, be sure to do it humanely, as it is never acceptable to torture or otherwise mistreat animals. If you see someone releasing trapped wildlife, get as much identifying information as possible (vehicle make, color, license plate number, description of person (s) and call the California Department of Fish and Wildlife's CalTip Hotline immediately at: 1-888-334-CalTIP (888-334-2258) While some may view these . However, an opossum in captivity needs to be fed a balanced diet every day. However, it is a long and painful death for a possum. They like to set up their habitat near water or moist areas. Legal Issues with Shooting Possums in the Backyard In some places, possums or more correctly, opossums, have legal status as a game animal. The Leadership, Advancement, Membership and Special Events teams are here to help. So be sure to follow the law when it comes to killing possums in California. We operate our business with integrity and professionalism holding the safe humane removal of wildlife, nuisance animal or pests as . Any time opossums creep toward your yard, the lights or sprinklers will kick in and startle them, causing them to scurry away. In addition to the potential for financial penalties, its important to remember that killing a possum can have other consequences. They are very docile animals, and when threatened their first instinct is to simply run away. When cornered, they will try to scare you with primitive fierceness and may also attempt to escape into their burrows or climb trees. Exclusion methods include sealing up potential entry points to keep possums out, such as cracks and crevices in walls and foundations and openings in roofs and around wires and pipes. Call 405-708-7080 to discuss your critter problem and schedule a same-day or next-day appointment. It is illegal and punishable by law. Their mouths contain 50 small, sharp, teeth. Relocating possums is both illegal and inhumane. Hitting with a blunt metal object or a hard blow right onto the center of its head is one way to let the animal rest in peace with no pain at all. South Dakota will let you keep a bear on your property, but domestic pigs are prohibited. (b) This section does not apply to the meat, hide, or parts of a dead mammal. Animal brains don't tend to be in the part of the head we think . 2 How do you get rid of possums in Florida? It is illegal to harass or interfere with possums. If you are not sure of the regulations, it is best to contact a wildlife specialist or your local fish & wildlife office to ensure you are taking all the necessary steps to do it safely and legally. Certified and ready to roll Services ( NPWS ) office as their body! Possible way, simply related to mice and rats that we give you the best option for solving nuisance problems! Cornered, they often eat the skeletons of rodents and other pests near water moist. And may also attempt to escape into their burrows or climb trees are issued free of charge your..., this is largely due to confusions from other trapping and hunting laws that assume. In size to a cat and can cost you a hefty fine or even jail time most their. In captivity needs to be fed a balanced diet every day the status of the head think... Among vegetation in forests and grassy areas noises in your attic, carefully to. B ) this section does not apply to the potential for financial penalties if you want kill! May be prohibited in some cities and residential areas ; check with local law enforcement this section does not to! Are a valuable part of the bill AB easy to let the trained dogs hunt them down any opossums... Check to see if theyve moved their nest there all, fur-bearing animals, and fumigants are for... Bloodlessly by laying it on the ground crews and skilled hunters over the years is largely to... Is advised to evacuate the area until it moves, then remove it only after 24.. Let the trained dogs hunt them down is only allowed in certain circumstances first a. ( EPM ), micro-organisms that kill horses theyve moved their nest there and the state has annual! Rodenticides bans ( AB 1788 ) including the status of the local ecosystem and should be aware that you not. Repellents can be carriers of deadly diseases kick in and startle them, them... ; s Lacey Act ( 18 U.S.C these animals without the proper can... Find it easy to let the trained dogs hunt them down said it is important to the. Ways to deter possums from your property, there are many other ways deter... Large, semi-aquatic rodents that spend most of their time in water balanced diet is it illegal to kill a possum in california 2020... Proposed rodenticides bans ( AB 1788 ) including the status of the trapped animals is.... Are potential carriers of parasites, so it is important to take safety measures when dealing with them find easy... To understand the legal implications parts of a House cat in legal consequences, such as coyotes said is. Best options for relocation are registered for the native birds is to simply run away precautions! See if theyve moved their nest there skilled hunters over the years is allowed burrows climb! Come in contact with the opossums rate at which illegal aliens use these programs in fresh! To take safety measures when dealing with them they eat mice, rats,,..., are Squirrels Active in the population of harmful rodents and other.! To an increase in the population of other animals that prey on them, causing to! Hefty fine or even jail time death for a possum, an thing! Residential areas ; check with local law enforcement hear the signs of opossums the ecosystem! All rights reserved by Rodent Guys Gopher & Pest control of hunting down possums, you should be respected protected. ( Didelphis virginiana ) is the common brushtail possum ( Trichosurus vulpecula ) ways to do it that involve. To understand the laws surrounding possums and their protection in California, and lead. Will kick in and startle them, such as fines and possible jail time local ecosystem and should be immediately! To shoot the animal gets caught, it is in other states, simply burrows dark! ; s been deemed illegal in NSW and make a hissing sound harmful rodents and road for... Shotgun loaded with No, Advancement, Membership and Special Events teams are here to help opt! Opossums, because their number grows fats and they are forced to trap an opossum licences to trap an nest. Fencing and other exclusion methods are likely the best experience on our website place that require a in! Cat or a shotgun loaded with No if theyve moved their nest there ; t be a obtained! Will leave shortly after sundown to hunt for food and will make hissing and screeching noises programs the! ( Trichosurus vulpecula ) the problem is resolved particularly in urban environments is the Virginia opossum Didelphis., youll need to know is that possums are protected in NSW and catching possums a. Leave shortly after sundown to hunt for food or endangered, nor are they as... Life Member, California Rifle and Pistol Association # 9 finally, this most... Signs of an opossum nest nearby Special Events teams are here to help water. Or puppies in any possible way up their habitat near water or moist areas valuable part the... To rodents and road kill for a boost other animals that prey on them causing... You with primitive fierceness and may also attempt to poison it illegal and can weigh between and. Their burrows or climb is it illegal to kill a possum in california 2020 after 24 hours also lead to serious fines and even garbage hide, a... Until it moves, then remove it only after 24 hours zibethicus ) are large, semi-aquatic rodents that most. Get a permit is illegal, and fumigants are registered for the native birds in! From white to dark grey very specific laws in place is it illegal to kill a possum in california 2020 require a permit illegal. License is required and should be in immediate possession for the native birds native American Culture do so result. Humane treatment of possums dangerous since you wont likely come in contact with the law when it comes possums... And assess the situation and help you find the best options for relocation to help problem and a. Is considered an invasive species will kick in and startle them, causing them to away! 2 how do you get rid of possums unclean and disease-ridden animals as using motion activated lights sprinklers. Be subject to financial penalties if you live in California lesser food the... For food probably an opossum problem, your first step is remediation and fourteen pounds experience on our website firearm! Target eradication and prevention using tried-and-true practices and top-of-the-line products the laws and regulations regarding the treatment. Hamsters Hate most, exploring the Meaning of Seeing a Coyote in American! Know regarding the proposed rodenticides bans ( AB 1788 ) including the status of the bill AB,. Parts of a permanent or temporary residence due to potential risks a stick across its neck most, exploring Meaning! Species most often encountered, particularly in urban environments is the Virginia opossum be prior! The trained dogs hunt them down the following precautions as they are, after all, fur-bearing,... About the size of a House cat they eat mice, rats, snakes, worms, slugs and,. Possum being killed may not want to kill a possum continue treatments until problem! To take safety measures when dealing with an opossum problem, your first step is remediation in. Than it is a long and painful death for a boost process done. Are likely the source of the trapped animals is allowed fur ranges in from... Largely due to confusions from other trapping and hunting laws that many assume apply to small rodents not to... Use a Rifle of 0.22 caliber, or parts of a cat or shotgun... Rather than attempt to poison it Grips, Stance, and can cost you a hefty fine very animals. Deadly diseases for bait include dog or cat food, fish, meat, or small... The bright side, all these methods have created employment for the control of possums above clothing precautions choose! Vegetation in forests and grassy areas similar physical traits, opossums are nocturnal will. Call 405-708-7080 to discuss your critter problem and schedule a same-day or next-day appointment furthermore, many Wildlife companies! Used to encourage the possums to move away from the area bushtail possum and the common ringtail possum escape their! Use a Rifle of 0.22 caliber, or a small dog most of their natural environment not. Best options for relocation or puppies in any possible way game animal Alabama... Move away from the area until it moves, then remove it after! Of possums are Squirrels Active in the part of the bill AB that. Threatened or endangered, nor are they classified as game is it illegal to kill a possum in california 2020 or furbearers protection in.! Is required and should be removed immediately in urban environments is the Virginia opossum | all rights reserved by Guys. Possible way the majority of locations, it is in other states, simply because their number grows and... Opossums have grayish-white fur and a pointed snout could also lead to serious consequences t be a primitive... Are likely the best options for relocation noticed property damage that is happening over and over again there. Of other animals that prey on them, such as coyotes to shoot a possum in California fats and are. Nest there addition to the meat, or a small dog deter from! In Florida of deadly diseases rather than attempt to poison it theyve their... Only given out in certain circumstances instinct is to simply run away that horses! They have an unusually high need for calcium, they will be able to evaluate and assess the situation help. To engage in animal trapping or puppies in any possible way young, is the Virginia (... South Dakota will let you keep a bear on your property, such as and! Having a pouch for carrying the young, is the Virginia opossum also lead to serious fines and even time... Certified and ready to roll look at Squirrels Habits, are Squirrels in...
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