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In Search of Avian Majesty: 22 Stunning Bird Species of Badghis Explored

Badghis is a province located in the northwestern part of Afghanistan, and it is home to a wide variety of birds. The region is known for its wetlands, and the province is a significant stopover for many species of migratory birds.

Badghis is also home to several resident species, including eagles, hawks, falcons, and partridges. These birds provide a great food source for the local people and are an essential part of the region’s ecosystem.

This article will provide an overview of the birds of Badghis, including the species found in the area and their habitats.

22 Birds to Watch in Badghis

Badghis is a province in the northwest of Afghanistan, bordering Turkmenistan. The name means “home of the winds” in Persian and Pashto, referring to the steppe winds that blow into the province from the north and northwest.

Badghis is a diverse and scenic region, with mountains, hills, ravines, rivers, and desert areas. It is also home to a variety of birds, some of which are endemic, rare, or endangered.

Here are 22 birds that you can watch in Badghis.

1. Barn Owl

Barn_owl__1

The barn owl is a remarkable bird species found everywhere except for a few regions. It is the most widely distributed species of owl in the world and one of the most widespread of all species of birds.

Its range spans from the Arctic Circle to the tropics and from the east coast of Africa to the west coast of the Americas. The barn owl is absent from some areas, such as the polar regions, Asia north of the Himalayas, most of Indonesia, and some Pacific Islands.

This is likely because these regions are too cold or dry for barn owls to survive.

Despite these areas, the barn owl has managed to spread across a large part of the world, and it is a testament to its adaptability and resilience. The barn owl is a medium-sized owl with a wingspan of around 4 feet.

It has a distinct heart-shaped face, and its plumage is a mottled gray-brown.

Its diet consists mainly of small mammals and birds, which it hunts at night. The barn owl is a fascinating species, and its ability to thrive in various environments makes it an essential part of the global ecosystem.

Its wide distribution makes it a valuable indicator of the environment’s health, and it is essential to ensure that it continues to have suitable habitats to thrive.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderStrigiformes
FamilyTytonidae
GenusTyto
SpeciesT. alba

2. Common Wood Pigeon

Common_wood_pigeon__2

The standard wood pigeon is a dove and pigeon species native to the western Palearctic region. It is a large bird, recognizable by its distinctive iridescent blue-grey plumage, white neck patches, and large, rounded head.

Its scientific name is Columba palumbus, and it belongs to the genus Columba, which includes closely related species such as the rock dove. The wood pigeon is a social bird and can often be seen feeding in large flocks on farmland and in wooded areas.

It feeds mainly on seeds, berries, and grains but takes insects, fruits, and buds. It is an important species for humans, providing food for hunters and farmers, and its feathers have been used for centuries in clothing, decoration, and religious ceremonies.

The wood pigeon symbolizes peace and is often a messenger of good luck and goodwill.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderColumbiformes
FamilyColumbidae
GenusColumba
SpeciesC. palumbus

3. Rock Pigeon

Rock_dove__3

The rock dove, also known as the rock pigeon or common pigeon, is a bird species belonging to the Columbidae family. It is the ancestor of the domestic pigeon, commonly referred to simply as the “pigeon.”

Many domesticated pigeons have escaped and now live in the wild, forming populations of feral pigeons in various parts of the world. As a result, the number of rock doves in the wild has increased significantly.

The rock dove is one of the most recognizable bird species in the world. It is typically grey with two black bars on its wings and is often seen perched on rooftops or near other urban areas.

The rock dove is also highly adaptable and can survive in various habitats, from open meadows to dense forests. The rock dove is an important species in many cultures, and it has been celebrated in art, literature, and mythology.

It has also been a food source for many societies and has been used for its medicinal properties. The pigeon is also an important symbol of peace in many religions and has been featured in many peace-related ceremonies.

Although rock doves are generally non-aggressive, they can be a nuisance in some areas where they are abundant. Feral pigeons may cause damage to buildings and monuments, and they can spread disease. In addition, many people find their droppings unsightly and unpleasant.

To reduce the population of feral pigeons, some cities have implemented control measures such as trapping and relocation.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderColumbiformes
FamilyColumbidae
GenusColumba
SpeciesC. livia

4. Mute Swan

Mute_swan__4

The mute swan is a species belonging to the waterfowl family Anatidae. It is a relatively large bird, with a wingspan of approximately 1.5 to 2.5 meters and a body length of up to 1.3 meters.

The mute swan is native to much of Eurosiberia and the far north of Africa. It is a graceful, elegant bird with a long, slender neck and a white plumage.

The mute swan is primarily a freshwater bird that feeds on fish, crustaceans, mollusks, aquatic plants, and occasionally small insects. It is highly territorial and will defend its nesting area and family fiercely.

The mute swan is essential for conservation efforts, as it is a keystone species for many aquatic ecosystems. It is also an iconic symbol of many nations, and its image is often used in art and literature.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderAnseriformes
FamilyAnatidae
GenusCygnus
SpeciesC. olor

5. Baikal Teal

The Baikal teal is a species of dabbling Duck native to eastern Russia. It is also known as the bimaculate duck or squawk duck, names that refer to its distinctive markings.

It migrates to East Asia for the winter months, spending the rest of the year in its native range. The Baikal teal is a small duck species, measuring around 38 cm in length. It has a black-and-white pattern on its head and back, with a brown chest and a white belly.

It has a blue-green bill and legs, with a black tail. Its diet comprises aquatic insects, mollusks, crustaceans, and plant material. The Baikal teal is a social species found in large groups.

It nests in marshes and wetlands, with the female building a nest from vegetation and feathers. The female will lay around eight eggs and incubate a clutch for around 25 days. The chicks can feed themselves soon after hatching.

The Baikal teal is classified as near threatened by the IUCN due to habitat destruction, degradation, hunting, and other forms of mortality. Conservation efforts are underway to protect this species and its habitat.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderAnseriformes
FamilyAnatidae
GenusSibirionetta
SpeciesS. formosa

6. Common Shelduck

Common_shelduck__6

The common shelduck is a waterfowl species belonging to the Tadorna genus. It is found in the Euro-Siberian region of the Palearctic, which covers a large area from Europe to Siberia.

This species is widespread in this region and breeds mainly in temperate climates. During the winter, it can also be found in the subtropical areas and the Maghreb region of North Africa.

This species is well adapted to survive in various climates and habitats, from forests and grasslands to coastal areas and estuaries. The common shelduck is a strong flyer, capable of covering long distances during its migrations.

It feeds on aquatic creatures such as mollusks, crustaceans, aquatic plants, insects, and other invertebrates. Its diet also includes grains, berries, and other plant matter.

The common shelduck is an essential species in the food chain, providing food for predators such as foxes, hawks, and owls.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderAnseriformes
FamilyAnatidae
GenusTadorna
SpeciesT. tadorna

7. Garganey

Garganey__7

The garganey is a small dabbling duck that breeds across much of Europe and the Palearctic regions. Unlike some other duck species, the garganey is strictly migratory, meaning the entire population travels to warmer climates during winter in the Northern Hemisphere.

These flocks often fly to areas such as southern Africa, India, Bangladesh, and Australasia, where they gather in large numbers. In these areas, the ducks can find more suitable habitats and a better variety of food to survive the cold winter months.

The garganey is a fantastic species, capable of traversing thousands of miles to find the best environment for survival.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderAnseriformes
FamilyAnatidae
GenusSpatula
SpeciesS. querquedula

8. Greater White-fronted Goose

Greater_white-fronted_goose__8

The greater white-fronted goose is a species of goose that is related to the lesser white-fronted goose. This goose species is named for the white feathers found at the base of its bill.

The Latin term for the goose, albifrons, combines the words albus, meaning white, and frons, meaning forehead.

This aptly describes the white feathers that border the base of the bill of the greater white-fronted goose. The greater white-fronted goose is a large bird with a wingspan of up to two feet and a body length of around 22 inches.

It is primarily grey and brown, with a white throat and breast.

The distinctive white patch at the base of its bill sets it apart from other species of geese and is the reason for its name. The greater white-fronted goose is found in northern Europe, Asia, and North America.

It is a migratory species and spends summers in the tundra of northern Canada and Alaska and winters in coastal wetlands of the United States and Europe.

It feeds on small aquatic creatures, such as insects, crustaceans, mollusks, and fresh shoots of grass and grains. The greater white-fronted goose is an essential species in the wild, as its presence helps to maintain the balance of the aquatic ecosystems in which it lives.

It is also a famous bird in captivity and is kept for its beauty and usefulness in pest control.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderAnseriformes
FamilyAnatidae
GenusAnser
SpeciesA. albifrons

9. Northern Shoveler

Northern_shoveler__9

The northern shoveler, commonly known as the shoveler, is a prevalent duck species. It is found in many parts of Europe, including northern areas and across the Palearctic. It is also found in many regions of North America.

During the winter, the northern shoveler migrates to warmer areas, such as southern Europe, the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, Central America, the Caribbean, and northern South America.

This species is highly adaptable to different habitats and can survive in various environments. It is a hardy bird capable of withstanding cold temperatures, and its migration pattern allows it to take advantage of different environments.

The shoveler is an essential species in the food chain, as it provides food for other species, such as fish, birds, and other aquatic creatures.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderAnseriformes
FamilyAnatidae
GenusSpatula
SpeciesS. clypeata

10. Great Bustard

The great bustard (Otis tarda) is a large bird in the bustard family and is the only living member of the genus Otis. This species is found across various habitats, from northern Morocco to Central and East Asia.

These birds typically breed in open grasslands and farmland, using abundant food sources. They are well adapted to life in these open habitats and can be seen walking on the ground or soaring high above for food.

Great bustards have unique plumage, with males displaying black and brown feathers and females and juveniles being more mottled. They feed on various insects, seeds, and other small animals they can find in their habitat.

Although they are declining in some parts of their range, they are still relatively common and are listed as a species of most minor concern by the IUCN.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderOtidiformes
FamilyOtididae
GenusOtis
SpeciesO. tarda

11. Greater Flamingo

Greater_flamingo__11

The greater flamingo is a widely distributed species of the flamingo family, being both the largest and most commonly found.

They can be found in many areas worldwide, including Northern and Sub-Saharan Africa, the Indian Subcontinent, the Middle East, the Levant, the Persian Gulf, the Gulf of Aden, the Red Sea, and the Mediterranean countries of Southern Europe.

This large, brightly colored bird is remarkable in its native habitat. The greater flamingo is usually characterized by its long neck, slender legs, and bright pink or orange feathers. It has a long, curved beak and a wingspan of about 3.5 feet.

It is a wading bird, often gathering in large flocks when foraging in shallow water or mudflats.

They often feed on algae, crustaceans, insects, and mollusks, using their beaks to filter food from the water. The greater flamingo typically breeds in colonies, building their nests on the ground in shallow water or mudflats.

During the breeding season, they become more territorial and fight off predators with their long necks and strong wings.

The female lays a single egg, which is incubated for around 27 days. The greater flamingo is an iconic species, often associated with the tropics and warm climates.

However, the bird is also found in temperate climates, which is a testament to its adaptability and resilience.

Despite these widespread habitats, the greater flamingo is listed as a vulnerable species by the IUCN due to habitat loss and hunting. Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect this species and its habitats.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderPhoenicopteriformes
FamilyPhoenicopteridae
GenusPhoenicopterus
SpeciesP. roseus

12. Black-winged Stilt

The Black-winged Stilt is a species of bird belonging to the avocet and stilt family. It is found worldwide, from Europe to Africa, Asia to North America. It is recognized by its long legs, which it uses to forage in shallow water.

The scientific name for this species is H. himantopus, a single, global black-winged stilt species. This species is known for its graceful wading and distinctive black wings, which contrast against its white body.

The black-winged stilt is a graceful bird with long legs and colorful wings. It is an integral part of the ecosystem, acting as a predator, scavenger, and pollinator.

The black-winged stilt is also an important indicator species, as its presence or absence in an area can indicate the aquatic environment’s health.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderCharadriiformes
FamilyRecurvirostridae
GenusHimantopus
SpeciesH. himantopus

13. Common Quail

Common_quail__13

The Common Quail (or European Quail) is a small ground-dwelling bird part of the pheasant family.

It is a migratory species, which means it spends the warmer months of the year in the western Palearctic region and migrates to Africa and southern India during the colder months.

The Common Quail is more often heard than seen, as it has a distinctive three-note call that can be heard in the early morning and late evening. The call is made up of three short, repeated chirps.

The Common Quail is a ground-nesting bird, meaning it builds its nests on the ground rather than in trees. It is known for its ability to run and take cover quickly, making it difficult to spot.

Its small size makes it hard to spot, as it is only around 10 inches long. The Common Quail is an integral part of the local ecology as a food source and pollinator.

Its diet consists mainly of seeds, insects, and other small invertebrates, making it an essential part of the food chain. It also plays a role in pollination, as it is known to feed on flowers, carrying pollen from plant to plant.

In conclusion, the Common Quail is a small, migratory bird part of the pheasant family. It is more often heard than seen, as it has a distinctive three-note call. It is an integral part of the local ecology, as it is a food source and a pollinator.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderGalliformes
FamilyPhasianidae
GenusCoturnix
SpeciesC. coturnix

14. Eared Grebe

Black-necked_grebe__14

The black-necked grebe, also known as the eared grebe, is a bird species belonging to the grebe family. It was first described in 1831 by Christian Ludwig Brehm, a German zoologist and naturalist.

The species is divided into three accepted subspecies, of which the nominate subspecies is the most widely distributed. The other two subspecies are the European and American black-necked grebe.

The black-necked grebe is a medium-sized water bird found in fresh and saltwater habitats. It has a black neck and head with a white throat and chest. Its back and wings are brown, and its tail is white.

The bird is known for its impressive courtship displays, during which males raise their necks and heads up and down in a rhythmic manner. The black-necked grebe feeds mainly on small fish, crustaceans, and aquatic insects.

It is an agile swimmer who can dive to great depths to catch prey. The bird breeds in colonies on inland and coastal wetlands, usually near deep water.

It builds a floating nest of vegetation and lays two to five eggs. The black-necked grebe is a widespread species in Europe, Asia, North Africa, and the Americas. It is not considered to be threatened, and its population is stable.

However, it is vulnerable to human disturbance and the destruction of its habitat.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderPodicipediformes
FamilyPodicipedidae
GenusPodiceps
SpeciesP. nigricollis

15. Eurasian Collared Dove

Eurasian_collared_dove__15

The Eurasian collared dove is a species of dove that is native to Europe and Asia. It is a medium-sized dove with a distinctive black collar around its neck. This species is not native to North America but was introduced to the continent in the 1970s.

It has since become established in many parts of the United States and Canada. The species has also been introduced to Japan and some Caribbean islands.

In these areas, the Eurasian collared dove has been observed to be quite successful, out-competing other dove species for resources.

This species has a high reproductive rate and can adapt to different habitats, enabling it to become established in these introduced regions.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderColumbiformes
FamilyColumbidae
GenusStreptopelia
SpeciesS. decaocto

16. Golden Eagle

The golden eagle is a majestic bird of prey found throughout the Northern Hemisphere. Its scientific name is Aquila chrysaetos, meaning “eagle with golden plumage.”

It is the most widely distributed eagle species and one of the most recognizable birds of prey in the Northern Hemisphere. Golden eagles are members of the Accipitridae family, a group of birds of prey that also includes hawks, kites, and vultures.

They have a wingspan of up to seven feet and can weigh up to 14 pounds, making them the second largest bird of prey in the Northern Hemisphere after the bald eagle.

Golden eagles are known for their mighty wings and keen eyesight, which allow them to spot their prey from great distances.

They are primarily carnivorous, feeding on small mammals such as rabbits and squirrels, birds, reptiles, and fish. They also occasionally scavenge carrion. Golden eagles have been revered by many cultures throughout history.

They have been used as symbols of strength, courage, and even royalty. They are also known to be fiercely loyal to their mates and families and will fiercely defend their territories from intruders.

Today, golden eagles are still found across the Northern Hemisphere, though their numbers are declining due to habitat destruction and human-caused deaths. Conservation efforts are in place to help protect these magnificent birds and ensure their continued survival.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderAccipitriformes
FamilyAccipitridae
GenusAquila
SpeciesA. chrysaetos

17. Gadwall

Gadwall__17

The gadwall is a species of dabbling Duck belonging to the family Anatidae. This species is one of the most widespread ducks in the world, found in many parts of Europe, Asia, and North America.

It is a medium-sized bird, measuring about 16 to 19 inches long and weighing between 1.5 and 2.5 pounds. Its body is slender, and its bill is pointed. The gadwall has a brownish-gray plumage on its back, head, and neck, and its underside is white.

Its wings are dark, with a white patch near the tips. The male has a yellowish-brown head and a black breast, while the female has a grayish-brown head and a browner breast. The gadwall is a gregarious bird and can often be found in large flocks near wetlands, ponds, and lakes.

It feeds mainly on aquatic plants and insects and can often be seen dabbling in the water. It is also known to eat small fish, mollusks, and crustaceans. The gadwall often breeds in wetlands, building its nests near the water’s edge.

The female usually lays 5 to 10 eggs, which are incubated for about 24 days.

After hatching, the chicks stay with their parents for a few weeks before becoming independent. The gadwall is widespread, and its population is not significantly threatened.

However, some populations are declining due to habitat destruction and other human activities. Therefore, conserving and protecting its habitats is essential to ensure its long-term survival.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderAnseriformes
FamilyAnatidae
GenusMareca
SpeciesM. strepera

18. Red-crested Pochard

Red-crested_pochard__18

The red-crested pochard is a large species of diving Duck native to parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa. It is scientifically classified as Netta rufina, with the genus name Netta derived from Greek and the species name Rufina from Latin.

The name reflects the bird’s distinctive physical characteristics; the word Netta refers to the duck-like shape of the Duck, and the word Rufina refers to its golden-red coloration. The red-crested pochard is a reasonably large species with a roughly 60-70 cm wingspan.

They are known for their dark brown head and body, with a bright golden-red crest on the top of their head. The breast and flanks are bright reddish-brown, and the bill is black with a white line around the edges.

The feet and legs are greyish-green, and the eyes are bright yellow. The red-crested pochard generally lives in wetlands and shallow lakes, feeding on aquatic plants, aquatic invertebrates, and occasionally small fish.

They are typically found in large flocks and are known to be quite vocal.

They are also strong swimmers capable of diving for up to 15 seconds to feed. Due to its stable population numbers, the red-crested pochard is currently listed as a species of most minor concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN).

However, its numbers have declined in some ranges due to habitat destruction and hunting. Conservation efforts are necessary to ensure the continued survival of this species.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderAnseriformes
FamilyAnatidae
GenusNetta
SpeciesN. rufina

19. White-headed Duck

The white-headed Duck is a small species of Duck that is typically about 45 cm in length. The male of the species has a white head with a black crown, a blue bill, and reddish-grey feathers. The female of the species has a darker bill and a duller coloration.

The white-headed Duck’s natural habitat is in lakes with open water and dense vegetation around the edges. The thick vegetation provides a place for the Duck to hide from predators and nest.

They prefer these locations as they provide plenty of food sources, such as small fish, insects, and plants. The white-headed Duck is also found in small ponds and canals.

During the breeding season, they can also be found near wetlands and marshes, feeding on aquatic invertebrates and small fish.

The white-headed Duck is an essential species in many habitats, as it helps keep the water clean, and its diet helps control insect and plant populations.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderAnseriformes
FamilyAnatidae
GenusOxyura
SpeciesO. leucocephala

20. White-throated Needletail

The white-throated needletail is a species of swift found in the genus Hirundapus. It is known for its incredible flying speed and is rumored to reach speeds of up to 170 km/h in horizontal flight.

However, this has not been verified as the methods used to measure its speed have not been made public. This swift is also called the needle-tailed or spine-tailed because of its slender, pointed tail feathers.

This species of swift is often seen in flocks of hundreds flying over open country and coastal areas. As they are so fast, they are often seen as a blur of motion in the sky. They feed mainly on flying insects and can often be seen chasing and gobbling up their prey.

White-throated needletails are found in many parts of the world, including India, Southeast Asia, Australia, and the Middle East. Their populations are thought to be in decline due to habitat loss and the use of pesticides in agricultural areas.

As such, their conservation status is of increasing concern. In conclusion, the white-throated needletail is an impressive species of swift, renowned for its incredible flying speed. Although its speed has yet to be confirmed, it is still a remarkable species.

It is also essential to recognize this species’ threats and the need to protect its habitat to ensure its survival.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
CladeStrisores
OrderApodiformes
FamilyApodidae
GenusHirundapus
SpeciesH. caudacutus

21. Eurasian Oystercatcher

The Eurasian oystercatcher is a type of bird from the family Haematopodidae. It is sometimes known as the common pied oystercatcher, Palaearcticstercatcher, or simply oystercatcher.

It is a type of water, meaning it prefers to live and feed on the shores of bodies of water like oceans, rivers, and lakes. The Eurasian oystercatcher is a large bird, typically growing to around 48 cm long.

It has a primarily black body, with white underparts and a white head with a black crown and eye stripe. Its bill is long, bright orange, and slightly upturned. Males and females are similar in appearance.

Their diet includes mollusks, crustaceans, small fish, insects, and worms. They use their long, orange bill to dig in the sand and mud to find food. They also feed on mussels, cockles, and oysters, which is how they got their name.

The Eurasian oystercatcher breeds in parts of Europe and Asia and winters in parts of Africa. They are most active during the day but are also known to be active at night. During the breeding season, they form monogamous pairs and often stay together for multiple years.

They build their nests on the ground near the water’s edge. The Eurasian oystercatcher is a species of most minor concern on the IUCN Red List, meaning its population is stable and faces no significant threats.

Despite this, its populations are declining in some parts of Europe due to habitat destruction.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderCharadriiformes
FamilyHaematopodidae
GenusHaematopus
SpeciesH. ostralegus

22. Asian koel

The Asian koel is a species of bird belonging to the order Cuculiformes, which includes cuckoos, roadrunners, and anis.

It is native to the Indian Subcontinent, China, and Southeast Asia and is closely related to two other species of koel – the black-billed koel and the Pacific koel.

The three species are sometimes considered to form superspecies, meaning that they have a lot in common and are closely related. The Asian koel is a medium-sized bird, typically measuring between 30 and 34 centimeters in length.

It has a dark brown body, white underparts, and a yellow-orange bill. Its wings are long and pointed, and its tail is long and deeply forked. Its call is loud, can be heard from long distances, and consists of a deep, repetitive, two-tone whistling.

The Asian koel is mainly solitary and is most active in the early morning and late afternoon. It feeds primarily on fruits and berries and takes small lizards, insects, and eggs.

Its nesting behavior is unique in that it is a brood parasite – it lays its eggs in the nests of other birds, who will then raise the young koels. The Asian koel is a widely distributed species and is not considered to be threatened.

However, its population is declining in some areas due to habitat destruction, and it is listed as a species of most minor concern by the IUCN.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderCuculiformes
FamilyCuculidae
GenusEudynamys
SpeciesE. scolopaceus

Conclusion

Birds in Badghis are a great example of the diverse range of species found in Afghanistan. They provide a unique glimpse into the region’s rich biodiversity and can only be appreciated through firsthand observation.

As such, Badghis is the perfect destination for bird watchers to explore the area’s beauty.

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