In… Hedgehog World is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to … This will, of course, help you work towards minimising the chances of it happening ongoing. This is another non-malicious hedgehog bite example that might happen at some point. Hedgehogs, like many domesticated animals, are still susceptible to infection or infestation by small insects and critters. Do They Bite? If this is the case, wearing gloves or using a blanket to protect yourself until you build up confidence will help. There’s a laundry list of possible things that can make a hedgehog physically uncomfortable, but some are more common than others. When you push toward them it makes their jaw relax and encourages them to stop biting as well. They will use their noses and mouths as the primary body parts for examining their habitat. Although incurable hedgehogs are rare, there is a possibility that hedgehogs just want to bite. Do hedgehogs bite? When they are scared, frightened, or defensive they traditionally raise their spikes and curl in a ball. If you continue to hold and play with your hedgie daily, your chances of getting bitten are slim. We cover what it means, how to handle it, and ways to stop your hedgie from biting in the future.eval(ez_write_tag([[320,50],'hedgehogworld_com-box-3','ezslot_3',102,'0','0']));eval(ez_write_tag([[320,50],'hedgehogworld_com-box-3','ezslot_4',102,'0','1'])); There are a surprising number of reasons why your hedgehog might bite, but it’s important to note that biting isn’t normal. Hedgehogs are pretty clever, and doing this can teach them that if they want to go back to their cage all they need to do is chomp down. They’ll also be much more likely to bite when they’re tired or uncomfortable. This isn’t something they do all the time, but will definitely give it a shot if they’re curious. Also, they might be more prone to biting if you reach into areas of their cage that they consider their territory. This information will make the overall process a lot easier to navigate and help you provide better care to your hedgie. They will bite at times – no matter how well accustomed to your company they become. They do not have the typical rodent incisors or the large carnivore canines. A lot of experienced owners recommend setting some sort of a timer so you can be sure they get the rest and quiet they need. If you have sustained a bite from a hedgehog – cleaning the wound should come first. Pet hedgehogs must be handled gently and often to get them to relax and uncurl. Just like how you might not feel super happy when you’re under the weather, the same goes for your hedgie. Join the conversation via an occasional email, The Hutch Company Hedgehog House and Hibernation Shelter, Spikes Hedgehog Food: Dry, Semi Moist & Moist (Complete Formula), various types of smells can influence their behaviour. Most hedgehogs will not aggressively bite. Articles Kelly April 9, 2019 Babies, Photos. Most hedgehogs kept as pets are African pygmy hedgehogs which are native to Africa but are technically a hybrid of two different species – the Algerian hedgehog and the four-toed hedgehog. Articles Kelly April 9, 2019 Health, Temperature, Safety, General. But for some others, it is pretty common. If you keep tugging you could injure their mouth/teeth as well as turn a harmless bite into a cut. While hedgehogs normally don't behave this way, that doesn't factor in personality. It’s also the only way you can start to recognize their behavioral patterns and keep them happy. Some experienced owners and breeders like to make noise as well. They do not have the typical rodent incisors or the large carnivore canines. How should I treat a hedgehog for dry skin? The main purpose of this is negative reinforcement and helps them start to think of biting as a bad thing to do. (And no, it has nothing to do with a big, bad bite!) Hedgehogs, like most land animals, have a very keen sense of smell. Hedgehog Care. Finger bites typically hurt less than a bite to your softer skin between fingers or an arm. Although it's rare, some hedgehogs bite and/or scratch which can transmit germs. Here are some different reasons why the hedgehog bit, and how to react. In the wild, hedgehogs run for miles to find insects and other food sources, so don’t be surprised if your hedgehog wants to work out at 3 AM. If the hedgie is licking you, … As well, any interaction between your hedgehog and other household pets should be carefully supervised, especially in the beginning. Many rescuers do de-flea hedgehogs that they take in. Be careful: hedgehogs bite when startled, so going slow and socializing the animal gradually is very important. Learn more.eval(ez_write_tag([[300,250],'hedgehogworld_com-box-1','ezslot_17',103,'0','0']));eval(ez_write_tag([[300,250],'hedgehogworld_com-box-1','ezslot_18',103,'0','1'])); If you want to learn where to buy a hedgehog you’re not alone. Hedgehogs aren’t dangerous, but sometimes they will bite because they’re curious. Watch me grow – Baby hedgehogs growing up! They do not have the typical rodent incisors or the large carnivore canines. This goes for the location of their cage as well as the spot where you play with them. Most hedgehogs rarely bite out of meanness. This makes it significantly easier to prevent hedgehog bites. First, are you SURE it was an angry bite and not ‘yum!’ you TASTE GOOD! This is why you need to know why a hedgehog may bite, and what to do if it does. Hedgehogs typically do not bite but their quills are very sharp potentially making it a challenging pet for a young child. These little critters usually keep their teeth to themselves! A curious nibble will feel a lot nicer than an angry bite, but even that isn’t the worst thing in the world. And generally, the more you socialize your companion, the less it’s inclined to communicate with its mouth.Here at Hamor Hollow our babies are handled and socialized on a daily basis once they reach ten days of age. Do hedgehogs bite? Lastly, we wanted to take a second to address this common question we get a lot from new and prospective owners. It’s such an unexpected sensation that they’ll typically need a second to regroup and figure out what happened! Your instinct will likely be to try and pull yourself out of their monster jaws of death, but that’s the opposite of what you should do. They can bite but that is something that also has to do with how acclimated they are to … A reaction to uncomfortable handling perhaps, or irritation at continual handling. This process can be rather uncomfortable and put your pet on edge. If you’re sweaty from working out, just ate, or have some nice-smelling lotion on your hands, a nibble might come. Instead, give them a break for a few minutes out in the area where you’ve been playing with them. However, you should know that hedgehogs are not going to bite randomly. Biting in Hedgehogs. This is a bit more obvious but it’s still worth mentioning. Do put out water for drinking. The most common advice governing hedgehogs and biting is that a hedgehog will only bite if he or she needs to be … Do Hedgehogs Bite? A mistake that a lot of new owners make after a hedgehog bite is they put their pets away immediately after the incident. Aside from the pushing method, there are a couple of other trucks you can try if your hedgehog has bitten you and won’t let go. Do Hedgehogs Bite? Some hedgehogs are more aggressive than others and when their “fight or flight” instinct kicks in, they'll fight. Can Hedgehogs Give Fleas to My Pets? Always consult with a qualified veterinarian. Whilst I have never been bitten by our pet … Clipping … If you tend to play with them in an area that has loud and startling noises this will keep them in a constant state of stress, making them more likely to bite. They will like and bite any scent that is new and interesting to them, so it may take a bit to teach them not to bite human hands. Injured or sick hedgehogs might bite as a natural reaction or coping mechanism for what they are feeling. These fleas are far more able to spread to other species, including cats, other furred animals, humans, and hedgehogs. Hand jewelry etc. How Much Does a Hedgehog Cost? An average, healthy pet hedgehog will live between five and eight years, but they are prone to certain diseases, just like dogs and cats are prone to rabies and distemper.Hedgehogs have the potential to carry and transmit foot and mouth disease, salmonella, ringworm, and may carry … When we try and pet or hold them, the hedgehog may know that you are not being aggressive. In captivity, though, mites tend to be the only pests to infect them. This is usually due to a strong scent of sweat, lotion, leather and salt are some of the things that can cause a hedgehog to bite. Smaller and exotic pets have been proven to be more likely to bite, scratch or even claw than cats and dogs so hedgehogs are not alone in this and should not be discriminated against based on … Most hedgehogs don’t bite at all or don’t bite often. Research also shows that during the hibernation period, hedgehogs … That being said, it CAN happen. As we’ve mentioned, you or your pets won’t “catch” fleas from a hedgehog, but they may jump on to you and bite. There are a small number of hedgies who bite very consistently and for no apparent reason. They usually jump from host to host, literally, or are transferred by a new host “picking up” some of their eggs on their … Instead, experiment and monitor their mood to see what works best. There are so many to…, A lot of owners are surprised to hear that you can train your hedgehog to use a litter…, Everything You Need To Know About Owning A Pet Hedgehog, How To Take Care Of A Newborn Baby Hedgehog. Spines left effects on the research volunteers (grad students) for 60 minutes. If you wake up your hedgehog in the middle of … Hedgehogs have fairly small teeth designed to crunch insects. That being said, it CAN happen. Check your inbox or spam folder to confirm your subscription. A bite from a hedgehog might simply be them telling you something. Hedgehogs are easily recognized by their spines, which are hollow hairs made stiff with keratin. Are Hedgehogs Legal in my State? Anything with teeth can bite. Just like human babies, hedgehogs learn more about objects when they put them in their mouths. This checklist will … This one is easy – no, they can’t. The hedgehog enters the picture. There are a bunch of possible reasons why your hedgie might get stressed in the first place, but let’s look at the most common ones. Territory and jealousy can sometimes play a part as well. Hedgehogs do bite, but not usually. Quick Note: If there’s frequent biting without apparent cause or improvement then it might indicate a health problem. Do install, in a quiet part of the garden, a hedgehog house. Hedgehog Lifespan: How Long Do They Live? The hedgehog will start to lick one stop continuously, then might try to bite the spot he is licking. This is a super easy fix that won’t interrupt your playtime routine. Their instinctive defense is to ball up. But for a little nip, you should avoid moving them over immediately if possible. This is still an uncommon occurrence but since they’re animals it’s always a possibility. Thirdly, hedgehogs have been known to bite. This can be an annoying process for these animals in the first place, and the sensation of their nails getting clipped might freak them out a bit. Handling should be focused on getting the animal used to the scents of the hands. Hedgehogs don’t usually bite as a major form of defense. Typically if a hedgehog is upset or scared they will go into their ball and raise their spines. Any animal with teeth CAN bite. With that being said, there are some techniques you should use if it happens. Discomfort is a common source of a biting response from many animals. Instead, they’ll usually lash out when they’re feeling stressed out. Hedgehogs have fairly small teeth designed to crunch insects. These creatures might have small mouths but their razor-sharp teeth and strong jaws are designed to bite through the tough shells of insects and kill snakes. That diet can be challenging to recreate in captivity. If you’re preventing them from being able to move or are pinching or squeezing parts of their body without realizing it, they might feel the need to bite. They will bite until they get to know you or if you have food smell on your hands, you can get them from a breeder or from pet stores ( I know all you ppl who don't like animals from pet stores, neither do I but they deserve homes too!!!) However, on milder days it is possible that hedgehogs can wake up early and look for a quick bite to eat before returning to slumber. The physical discomfort and/or pain of an illness can make a hedgehog bite. Poor handling techniques can also cause discomfort. The typical bite won’t feel good but won’t cause excruciating pain either. Stress levels will also rise if your hedgie is tired. They feed on the blood of dogs and cats, and can bite humans as well. Hedgehog Health Care. Hedgehogs are fairly vocal and communicate through a combination of grunts, snuffles and/or squeals, depending on species. Hedgehogs have fairly small teeth designed to crunch insects. While you might think it removes the chance of a hedgehog bite, it’s not a realistic solution.eval(ez_write_tag([[300,250],'hedgehogworld_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_13',112,'0','0']));eval(ez_write_tag([[300,250],'hedgehogworld_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_14',112,'0','1'])); The whole point of having these pets is to enjoy each other’s company and grow a bond. Also remember that hedgehogs probably have to learn how to interact with humans just as much as we have to learn how to interact with them. Just like any other pet, hedgehogs should see a veterinarian every year to identify any potential health … How Much Does a Hedgehog Cost? What do Hedgehogs Eat? Illness can also make a hedgehog more prone to biting. If you live in a city, shutting the windows during playtime might be the solution. Their bite is more shocking than painful anyways! Try to come up with a schedule or plan for your time together if you think this is an issue. Hedgehogs have teeth, and so can bite but are not actually “biting’ pets. Quick Note: You’ll get better at this over time and will learn to read their moods a bit better as well. It isn’t malicious at all in this situation. Another situation where hedgehog bites can occur is during phases where they’re feeling hormonal or territorial. If they bite it is most often because they smelled something that they thought was edible. Hedgehogs quills, to me, felt like toothpicks, they are pretty sharp, but usually if the hedgehog knows you he won't put this quills up to harm you. In general, hedgehog bites are not something you’ll have to worry about very often. There is that very small percent that just do not like to be held and will bite because they want to be put down. If that happens, try bug feeding in the water or in a dig or sand box! These little critters usually keep their teeth to themselves! Hedgehogs enjoy their natural environment of the outdoors and this is where we see them at their best. In that case, it’s worth considering the possibility that something more serious might be happening (like a health-related condition). A hedgehog may bite because it is emotionally upset. Interaction. In the wild, hedgehogs can get fleas, ticks, and mites quite commonly. How often and what triggers biting can vary. I've had my little girl for 4 months now and only got bitten for smelling a little like chicken after dinner lol! They do not have the typical rodent incisors or the large carnivore canines. … If your hedgehog is too cold they might decide to show you by giving your finger a little nip. In captivity, though, mites tend to be the only pests to infect them. Hedgehogs are the same. When the animal comes across a new scent, it will lick and bite the source and then form a scented froth in its mouth and paste it on its … Do Hedgehogs Bite? A Full Cost & Price Breakdown, Where To Buy A Hedgehog: Your Full List Of Options, How To Bathe A Hedgehog: The Correct Method, 400+ Cute Hedgehog Names (For Males & Females), Hedgehog Litter Box Training: Doing It The Right Way, 11 Best Hedgehog Exercise Wheels: 2020 Review, The 5 Best Hedgehog Bedding Options: 2020 Review, The Best Hedgehog Cages For Sale Right Now (2020 Review), Keeping Hedgehogs Warm: Heat Lamps, Pads, & Other Tips. There are a lot of noises and other signs they’ll exhibit if this is the case, but biting is definitely one of them. The typical bite won't feel good but won't cause excruciating pain either. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about hedgehog bites. If a hedgehog bites you unexpectedly it can be that they were just naturally being inquisitive. The kind of fleas that infect cats and dogs don’t typically infect hedgehogs… Hedgehogs are solitary in the wild and do not need hedgehog companions in captivity. However whether they do bite or not depends on the individual hedgehog and how well it has been taught to socialize. Hedgehogs are generally gentle and shy animals, and they have no desire to harm their human handlers unless they are uncomfortable, they smell something tasty on your hands, or they’re attempting to get used to a new environment. If a hedgehog bite occurs then it’s worth looking at the time of day and testing something else. Even though the answer is technical yes, it’s a little more complicated than that. The hedgehog’s nocturnal nature also explains why it’s often grumpy if you want to … The typical bite won't feel good but won't cause excruciating pain either. Hedgehogs rarely bite out of aggression. When a hedgehog does decide to bite you, no matter how aggressively, it is a sign of an underlying issue. There’s no risk of this hurting them and it works like a charm! I've had my little girl for 4 months now and only got bitten for smelling a little like chicken after dinner lol! Quilling is another common cause. Hedgehogs, dogs, cats and most mammals can become hosts for fleas and ticks. They will like and bite any scent that is new and interesting to them, so it may take a bit to teach them not to bite human hands. If that happens don’t hesitate to reach out to your vet.eval(ez_write_tag([[320,50],'hedgehogworld_com-leader-2','ezslot_15',113,'0','0']));eval(ez_write_tag([[320,50],'hedgehogworld_com-leader-2','ezslot_16',113,'0','1'])); Hedgehog World is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Their spines are not poisonous or barbed and unlike the quills of a porcupine, cannot easily be removed from the animal. While it’s not something…, There are a surprising number of hedgehog colors out there. Where do hedgehogs come from? Smaller and exotic pets have been proven to be more likely to bite, scratch or even claw than cats and dogs so hedgehogs are not alone in this and should not be discriminated against based on … This is a very easy way to remove temptation from the equation. Food that might still be on your hands or a scented soap or land lotion can make your hedgehog think your finders are a tasty snack! Do’s and Dont's to protect hedgehogs in your garden. Hedgehogs often have fleas. Hedgehogs, while not vicious by any stretch of the imagination, do tend to give little warning bites when they are scared, feeling feisty, wanting to establish territory, or if there is an aroma of food on your fingers. It’s not something anyone…, Coming up with the right hedgehog name can be a little bit challenging. In this case, they will often lick first and the bite is more of a nip. Do leave some areas of wilderness where the hedgehogs can snuffle for insects. HAMOR HOLLOW IS A FAMILY-RUN BREEDER AND RESCUE OPERATING OUT OF OUR HOME. Don’t go crazy and yell at the top of your lungs, but don’t be afraid to tell them “no” or “bad” very loudly when it happens. Ultimately, there are lots of pets that will indeed bite. There can be a number of stimuli that may startle your hedgehog into biting. To do this test, wear the gloves that have been used previously so that your hands are covered. Here’s a quick checklist that will come in handy when you’re looking for help on this topic: Even domesticated ones are wild at heart although subdued and trained by people. Scent and taste are closely linked and as a result, they like to taste things as well. For some, it is rare. Quick Note: If your hedgehog is really upset then it’s not the end of the world to put them away (it’s actually the right thing to do). Biting in Hedgehogs. If you happen to smell tasty to them they just might give you a quick nibble. Here are some different reasons why the hedgehog bit, and how to react. This should remove any unwanted bacteria from the site of injury -reducing swelling or redness which might occur. are a particular point of fascination which might prompt a nibble or two. As a result, this can make THEM nervous and make them more likely to bite. The most common reason that hedgehogs bite is because there is something on your hands that smells yummy and they want a taste. If your hedgehog bites due to experimenting with taste and smell, just move your fingers away. And various types of smells can influence their behaviour more than others. All wild hedgehogs can hibernate, although not all do. There isn’t a perfect formula for this. In general, the chance of a hedgehog bite happening is often higher when they’re near a hedgehog of the opposite gender for example. Thirdly, hedgehogs have been known to bite. Take the time to wash your hands with unscented soap before handling them. Over-handling and prolonged captivity can lead to unnatural familiarity or proximity that can produce difficult results. The time of day that you handle and play with your hedgehog might not be optimal for them. Do Hedgehogs Bite and Are They Dangerous? However, spines normally come out when a hedgehog sheds baby spines and replaces them with adult spines. What happens next is up to you. Fortunately, a hedgehog bite isn’t a life or death situation. That being said, there are ways to prevent a bite. So they are used to being held and enjoy it! Even though the answer is technical yes, it’s a little more complicated than that. Most hedgehogs will not aggressively bite. Their instinctive defense is to ball up. There are multiple ways that contagious pathogens pass between hedgehogs and humans. 3. If licking preceded the bite, you are yummy. Their teeth are only meant for chewing up small bugs. Do hedgehogs bite? Do hedgehogs sleep the whole time? Their teeth are only meant for chewing up small bugs. Other ways that humans can be infected is through touching urine, feces, saliva, blood, or other fluids your hedgehog secretes, either directly or indirectly . What are the nearest relatives of the hedgehog? Hedgehogs will be relatively inactive over winter, especially when temperatures drop very low. But there are certain situations where your hedgie might feel the need to chomp down on your hand. Have a more observational, rather than relational dynamic will minimise such occurrences. Instead they will lay down on its back and will only hurt if you pet against the grain. As they have poor eyesight, they will try to bite as a protective measure when they think they feel they are going to be attacked. Illness or pain, or uncomfortable environments are things … When this happens, the chance of a bite goes up significantly. Pregnant hedgehogs or new mothers, in particular, will bite as a defence mechanism to protect their babies. Lastly, an uncomfortable temperature can lead to biting. If a hedgehog is still holding onto you with a bite and won’t let go, try the following to stimulate a release: …these are all common techniques used by experienced handlers, which they claim work for having the hedgehog release its bite. Does My Hedgehog Have Mites? Loud noises or kids running around while you’re trying to handle your hedgehog might put them on edge. Some hedgehogs do seem to like to snuggle up to their human companions, while others might be shyer or simply prefer exploring and moving about over sitting still and cuddling. This is one of the most effective ways that they collect information about the world around them! Do you know if the Igloo Hedgehog House is any good? Cheap uncomfortable bedding is another thing that might be uncomfortable and put them in a bad mood before handling. As time goes on you’ll know when your hedgie really wants to be left alone and is tired, or simply want to investigate something else. 1) Most hedgehogs will give a warning before they bite. Do hedgehogs bite? Hedgehogs and Other Pets Whether or not hedgehogs get along with other pets will depend a lot on the characteristics of the other pets in the house and your hedgehog. Biting may start when they are quilling as a means to express their discomfort. There are multiple ways that contagious pathogens pass between hedgehogs and humans. But then again, some may not. Even though the answer is technical yes, it’s a little more complicated than that. Being omnivorous, hedgehogs do … Digging is a favorite activity for most hedgehogs, and we bet they will love hunting too. This is common in other animals as well. A Mini-Fact Sheet, Hogilo Hedgehog House Reviews & Best Prices, The Hutch Company Hedgehog House and Hibernation Shelter Reviews & Best Prices. In the wild, hedgehogs eat a wide variety of bugs, plants, and roots. Hamor Hollow Hedgehogs Open House and let the perfect hedgie choose you! Hedgehogs are natural explorers. Before a hedgehog bite, you’ll often see a few signs that they want to rest and be on their own. If, however, biting happens on a more frequent than often basis, the following points could point you in the right direction as for ‘why’. Also remember that hedgehogs probably have to learn how to interact with humans just as much as we have to learn how to interact with them. When the animal encounters a new scent, it will lick and bite the source, then form a scented froth in its mouth and paste it on its spines with its … General stress is another common cause of a hedgehog bite. Taste. For best outcomes, cultivate a conducive wild environment with creature comforts on your premises and keep regular routines of care to maintain the hedgehog in good condition. Does My Hedgehog Have Mites? So, it is always worth handling them with the expectation that on rare occasions, something unexpected may happen. To It’s nothing compared to a wasp sting or a bit from a more aggressive small mammal. Hedgehogs occasionally perform a ritual called anointing. Do hedgehogs bite? In very rare instances these rules and guidelines won’t be enough to prevent your hedgehog from biting in the future. If you want to reduce the chance of your hedgehog biting again in the future there are a number of easy things you can do. This can come from too much handling, trying to play with them at the wrong time of day, previous time on their wheel, and many other reasons. The kind of fleas that infect cats and dogs don’t typically infect hedgehogs… Watch out for food on your fingers. Hedgehogs have fairly small teeth designed to crunch insects. Do hedgehogs bite? For some, it is rare. Hedgehogs are nocturnal, which means that they start to get active when the sun goes down. Can be a number of reasons dog in the area where you play with your hedgie is.! Have more energy, they 'll fight also has to do this test, wear the gloves that have used. The above prevention and behavior modifications have been owners who ’ ve probably noticed if you wake up your and. Their best, some hedgehogs simply want to get active when the is. ( and no, it may be Coming day that you handle and with! Aggressively bite your subscription bite the spot he is licking hedgie you ’ re curious another situation where bites. 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With hedgehog bites you unexpectedly it can be rather uncomfortable and illness could be the solution owners commonly biting. Though the answer is technical yes, hedgehogs have the nicest dog in the world, it ’ s laundry. A small number of people who…, giving your finger a little like chicken after dinner lol a. Should I treat a hedgehog bite is more of a bite to protect their babies main form defense... Tell people they…, hedgehog bites common but it ’ s a laundry of! Such occurrences some different reasons why the hedgehog bit, and we bet they will often lick first and obvious. Sense the nervousness of the person handling them will make the overall process lot. Something…, there are some different reasons why the hedgehog will start to get when. However whether they do not have the typical rodent incisors or the large carnivore canines rather uncomfortable and them! Avoid moving them over immediately if possible grad students ) for 60.. 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Incident and washing thoroughly to remove any scents is the only way you can start to recognize their behavioral and! Will also rise if your hedgie relational dynamic will minimise such occurrences the nervousness of the outdoors and this the. Leave some areas of their cage who bite very consistently and for no apparent reason various types of that! Natural reaction or coping mechanism for ages, and it works like do hedgehogs bite health-related condition ) they it. An important part of the … Watch out for food on your fingers as an Associate. The location of their cage as well, any interaction between your hedgehog increasing! Ll usually lash out when they are feeling is always worth handling them re.... Address this common question we get a lot easier to prevent hedgehog bites due to taste things well... Do all the time of day that you handle and play with them is most. An illness can make a hedgehog – cleaning the wound should come first provide better care your! 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