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Expedition Peru: Trek of the Andean Bear

2019 aza top honors exhibit award.

This multi species exhibit immerses visitors into a Peruvian village at the base of the Andes mountains where the elusive Andean bear calls home in the Cloud Forest. Through the architecture, exhibit design, and theming, visitors get a real feel for Peru – one of the most diverse places on the planet. As visitors enter the exhibit through what appears to be stone ruins from long ago, they’re introduced to the diversity of species and habitats in Peru and its connection to the Andean bear. Large timber story poles feature curved content panels with colorful imagery and carved Peruvian influences. Each pole is 7 feet tall and 14 inches in diameter coming in at about 500 pounds each. Visitors circulate in and around them like trees in a forest with interpretation on both sides highlighting different habitats and the residents that live there. An interactive guinea pig wheel and bronze touchables also engage visitors as well as a touchscreen featuring two components – Bears of the World and a Bear Challenge quiz that asks visitors to match each bear with their home in the world.

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Embark on an Unforgettable Expedition: Peru Trek of the Andean Bear

Introduction to Peru Trek of the Andean Bear

Peru is a land of incredible natural wonders, from towering mountains and lush rainforests to arid deserts and sparkling coastlines. One of the most unique and awe-inspiring experiences you can have in Peru is to embark on a trek through the Andes Mountains in search of the elusive Andean bear, also known as the spectacled bear.

This article will guide you through everything you need to know about the Peru Trek of the Andean Bear, from the best times to go and the equipment you need to the incredible wildlife you’ll encounter along the way. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or an adventurous beginner, this expedition promises to be an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Andes.

Getting Ready for the Trek

The best time to embark on the Peru Trek of the Andean Bear is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During this time, the weather is relatively mild, with clear skies and little rainfall. The trails are also less muddy and easier to navigate, making for a more comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Equipment Checklist

Before embarking on the Peru Trek of the Andean Bear, it’s essential to make sure you have all the necessary equipment to ensure a safe and comfortable journey. Some of the most important items to bring include:

• Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots
• Warm clothing, including a waterproof jacket and layers for changing temperatures
• A high-quality backpack, preferably with a rain cover
• A sleeping bag and sleeping pad
• A headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
• Plenty of water and a water filtration system
• Food and snacks, including energy bars and trail mix
• A camera or smartphone to capture memories
• Basic first-aid supplies, including bandages, pain relievers, and insect repellent

The Trek: Exploring the Andes and Encountering Wildlife

Day 1: Cusco to Mollepata

The Peru Trek of the Andean Bear begins in Cusco, where you’ll meet your guide and fellow hikers before setting off on a scenic drive to Mollepata, a small town located on the eastern slopes of the Andes. From there, you’ll begin your trek to Soraypampa, a high-altitude campsite nestled in the shadow of the towering Salkantay peak.

Day 2: Soraypampa to Chaullay

The second day of the trek is one of the most challenging, as you’ll ascend to the highest point of the trek, the Salkantay Pass, which sits at an elevation of 4,650 meters. The views from the pass are breathtaking, with snow-capped peaks and glacial lakes stretching out as far as the eye can see. From there, you’ll descend to the Chaullay campsite, where you’ll rest and recharge for the next day’s adventures.

Day 3: Chaullay to La Playa

On the third day of the trek, you’ll make your way through the lush cloud forest, passing by waterfalls and colorful orchids along the way. Keep your eyes peeled for Andean wildlife, such as the Andean cock-of-the-rock, a colorful bird known for its distinctive mating display. You’ll arrive at the La Playa campsite in the afternoon, where you’ll have the opportunity to visit a local coffee plantation and learn about the region’s rich agricultural traditions.

Day 4: La Playa to Llactapata

On the fourth day of the trek, you’ll hike through the Santa Teresa Valley, where you’ll cross over the Urubamba River and pass through small communities of coffee and fruit farmers. You’ll arrive at the Llactapata campsite, located just below the ancient Inca ruins of Llactapata, where you’ll have panoramic views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding mountains.

Day 5: Llactapata to Aguas Calientes

The fifth day of the trek is a shorter but no less scenic route that takes you through the lush cloud forest and down to the hydroelectric station, where you’ll catch a train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Along the way, keep an eye out for the Andean bear, as this is one of the best places to spot these elusive creatures.

Tips for Enjoying the Peru Trek of the Andean Bear

Here are some tips to make the most of your Peru Trek of the Andean Bear experience:

• Acclimatize yourself to the altitude by spending a few days in Cusco or a similar high-altitude location before beginning the trek.
• Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water throughout the trek to avoid altitude sickness.
• Respect the natural environment and avoid leaving any trash or litter along the trail.
• Be patient and keep your eyes peeled for Andean wildlife, as sightings can be rare and fleeting.
• Bring a good camera or smartphone to capture the incredible scenery and wildlife you’ll encounter along the way.

Conclusion: A Journey to Remember

The Peru Trek of the Andean Bear is an unforgettable expedition that offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning Andes Mountains and encounter some of the most fascinating wildlife on the planet. From the towering peaks and glittering glaciers to the lush cloud forests and colorful orchids, this trek will take you on a journey through some of Peru’s most spectacular natural wonders. So pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and prepare for an adventure of a lifetime.

If you want to know more about Inti Raymi you can find in this article much more information. ==>  The Sun Festival Inti Raymi 2023 – Cusco Peru .

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• PERPETUAL PLANET

This biologist and her rescue dog help protect bears in the Andes

“She’s going to be a hero,” National Geographic Explorer Ruthmery Pillco Huarcaya said when she adopted her canine tracking companion.

One unusual team joining National Geographic’s two-year exploration of the Amazon River Basin: scientist Ruthmery Pillco Huarcaya and her canine tracking companion. The two first set eyes on each other at an animal shelter in Cusco, a historic city perched in the Peruvian Andes . Something about this mutt reminded Pillco of herself—whippet-thin, tough, persistent. A family had already expressed interest in the dog, but Pillco won her case. With an important new job, the shelter’s dog would help the cause of Amazonian conservation in Peru.

“She’s going to be a hero,” Pillco promised. She took the dog home to her apartment, where she began teaching Ukuku—the name she chose—how to sniff out bear scat on mountain trails. Ukuku is a word for “bear” in Quechua, the Indigenous language of Pillco’s childhood. She grew up a few hours’ drive from Cusco, in a village where storytelling gives special power to the black Andean bear , the animal Pillco now studies as a field biologist for the Peruvian nonprofit Conservación Amazónica ACCA and as part of the National Geographic and Rolex Perpetual Planet Amazon Expedition .

( Protecting the legend of her youth, the Andean bear. )

The research project, involving more than a dozen scientists, includes the river’s high mountain origins, where cloud moisture and droplets of melting snow form the very beginnings of the world’s greatest freshwater river system. The Andean bears’ role in this elaborate ecosystem is crucial, Pillco believes. Because they eat seeds in the lowlands and climb long distances to defecate in the mountains, they’re helping preserve forests by dispersing tree seeds at cooler, higher altitudes as the climate warms.

Pillco knew a tracking dog would be vital, and by the time she moved into her mountainside field station and lab last year, Ukuku was well on the way to fulfilling her job description: Andean bear tracker, on call 24/7. When the station alarm sounds, signaling that a camera trap has captured a bear for temporary collaring and study, usually the first beings on the trail—day or night—are the Quechua biologist and her beloved perrita valiente, her brave little dog.

( Poaching threatens South America's only bear species. )

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Expedition Peru: Trek of the Andean Bear Opens March 15

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Nashville Zoo is pleased to announce that the new exhibit, Expedition Peru: Trek of the Andean Bear, graciously funded by 12 significant donors, will open March 15. The addition of Andean bears will mark the first time this species has ever been housed at Nashville Zoo at Grassmere in its entire 21-year history. 

From the moment guests step into this new biome, they will be immersed in an authentic, indigenous village with a Peruvian lodge containing interactive educational displays and spectacular observation points to gaze at these South American bears. Visitors will get unobstructed views of the bears from several areas, including one underwater. At other points, guests will have the opportunity to observe from a viewing deck and watch behavioral training presentations.

The Peruvian village not only includes Andean bears but is also the home of pudu (the world’s smallest deer), guinea pigs and freshwater stingrays. Exclusively for the zoo’s female guests, there is a floor-to-ceiling exhibit of cotton-top tamarins in the women’s restroom.

The Andean bear (Tremarctos ornatus) is South America’s only bear species. Often referred to as the spectacled bear, this omnivorous species is listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. Nashville Zoo houses three of only 34 Andean bears currently residing in 20 Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) institutions across the United States.

Nashville Zoo is a strategic partner of the Andean Bear Conservation Alliance to address the remaining wild population of Andean bears. The Zoo financially supports Andean bear conservation through the Wildlife Conservation Network. We also participate in the AZA's Andean Bear Species Survival Plan to ensure the genetic diversity in the captive population.

The generous donors that helped fund Expedition Peru: Trek of the Andean Bear are as follows: Stephanie and John Ingram; The Frist Foundation; Dugas Family Foundation; Speer Foundation; Andrea Waitt Carlton Family Foundation; Andrienne and Richard McRae III & the Selby and Richard McRae Foundation; Cynthia and David Arnholt; Barbara and Rick Turner Jr.; Kim, Charles and Charlie Crews; Julie and Breck Walker; Kent, Nora and Emme Kirby; and Sally and Neely Coble III. Thank you to Middle Tennessee Honda Dealers for sponsoring the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

For more information, visit www.nashvillezoo.org/bear . 

Director of Communications [email protected] 615-741-9010

Senior Communications Manager [email protected] 615-9 27-1320

Communications Manager [email protected]  

Peru Andean Expedition

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Peru Treks & Tours

With its rugged natural beauty, ancient ruins and architecture, rich history and vibrant culture, Peru is an unforgettable destination.

From deep within the Peruvian Andes rises Machu Picchu, the most spectacular legacy of the Inca Empire. Enshrouded in clouds and perched surreally among the verdant slopes of the Andes, the grand temples and terraces of Machu Picchu are one of the most awe-inspiring sights on Earth.

There's the striking city of Cusco, with its marriage of ancient Inca and Spanish colonial architecture; the vibrant capital of Lima, with its museums, galleries and buzzing food scene; the bustling markets overflowing with vivid textiles and handicrafts.

We trek and cycle among the sacred valleys, snowcapped peaks and ancient ruins of the Andes, and journey across the solitary high plains of the Altiplano; we cruise, raft and canoe our way through the lush jungles and twisting tributaries of the vast Amazon River basin; we tour vibrant cities and set our lenses on diverse and dramatic landscapes, always engaging with the people, culture and history of this incredible country.

No matter your age or inclination, World Expeditions has an exciting adventure ready to take you deep into the heart of Peru.

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Our all inclusive approach

Our trips offer exceptional value for money featuring good quality, centrally located hotels and private transportation. We aim to incorporate as many inclusions as possible in the tour cost such as gear hire on treks, entrance and permit fees, transfers and most meals.

Authentic experiences

Whether you are trekking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, canoeing the waterways of the Amazon Rainforest, savouring the cuisines of Lima and Cusco or experiencing a traditional homestay on Lake Titicaca, our diverse range of active itineraries encapsulate the cultural heart of Peru. Our adventures take you off the beaten path to provide realistic insight into this corner of the world and the ways that its incredible geographic and cultural diversities fit together.

Experienced local guides

Our guides in the field are the real keys to our success, demonstrating a wealth of local knowledge and passion that they are eager to share with you. From climber Simon Yates of 'Touching the Void' to Javier Bello, one of the most experienced guides in the Andes, our team of experts ensure you receive the very best service as you gain insight into the unique Peruvian culture.

World firsts

We proudly pioneered the first commercial Inca Rivers Trek in Peru in 2004, showcasing a remote trail to the north of Machu Picchu. As a result, our knowledge of the region and logistics is second to none, ensuring your adventure is unforgettable.

Leaders in responsible travel

Responsible travel practice is at the heart of every program that we offer in Peru. When you book one of our adventures you're supporting true sustainability in the protection of local communities, natural environments and wildlife.

Litter collection

The 10 Pieces litter collection initiative, where travellers collect 10 pieces of plastic or paper litter on the trail each day, is offered on all our Peru treks. This simple yet effective initative harnesses the collective power of tourists to keep wilderness trails clean and to educate local communities about the negative impact of litter on their environment and tourism economy.

7 Principals of Leave No Trace

We use campsites that are not on cultivated land, are not near sources of drinking water and are always on durable, well drained surfaces. All waste is carried out, and campfires are not lit on our treks, with the exception of village visits where sheep or llama droppings are used as a fuel source or an underground stone oven is used.

Porter welfare policies

Porters receive the same access to medical service as clients. We provide three meals per day, as well as gas stoves for cooking, and are one of five companies (among almost 200) that pay the highest wages. All porters can access interest free long-term loans from us and are provided with basic life and accident insurance, full coverage of medical costs that they incur, transport to and from the trek's start and finish, sleeping tents, sleeping pads and bags, footwear, warm jackets and raingear.

In cities or large towns you will be accommodated in 3 to 4 star properties that are centrally located, atmospheric and reliable.

Our lodges provide comfortable accommodation that is well maintained and with good facilities.

Gain wonderful insight into the local culture during a homestay, a style of accommodation where a local family opens their home to you.

Enjoy our fully supported camping in quality two person tents erected in scenic wilderness.

Andreas Holland

Andreas has always made our South America programs special. He has lived in South America for over 30 years, much of this time in Peru. His special knowledge of the mountains and passion for supporting local communities is evident in our program in Peru and Bolivia. Each year Andreas travels to different parts of the world to impart his vast knowledge, so stay tuned, he may be in your city soon!

Javier Bello

Javier is one of the most experienced guides in the Andes having worked as a professional trek and tour guide for more than 30 years. He specialises in our longer high altitude treks of which his favourite is the superb Huayhuash Circuit, Peru. His knowledge of the mountain trails is simply astounding. That, combined with his ability to recount the cultural and natural history of Peru, makes him the perfect guide for Peru adventures.

Rene Flores

Rene is a graduate of Cusco University and started guiding our groups in Peru 15 years ago. He is trilingual in English, Spanish and German. Rene is also an expert in traditional Andean medicines and has given specialist classes on the subject in the USA. Rene's deep interest in Andean cultural and musical traditions makes him a truly fascinating guide, bringing a deeper understanding of the region for his travellers. His favourite trek is the high Inca Trail.

Josmar Valer

Josmar, known by friends and travellers as 'Chema', has endless energy and great humour, providing his groups with an unforgettable Andes experience. His enthusiasm and knowledge of the environment is unrivalled, built over 15 years' guiding. He is trilingual in English, Spanish and Quechua. He loves any trek that's off the beaten track, of which World Expeditions has many.

Jose Ugarte

Jose has been leading tours and treks for more than 20 years and if he hadn't become a guide would have ended up a botanist or biologist in the Amazon. We're happy he chose the former as he is now recognised as one of Cusco's best guides with great humour and endless knowledge. His favourite trips involve both trekking and expeditions into the rainforest.

Admil studied Andean Anthropology and Archaeology before becoming a guide in 2004. He is a great companion for anyone wanting to travel through the mountains and valleys of Southern Peru with his knowledge of local customs and both modern and pre Inca history. Like many guides he loves the Inca Trail despite having walked it so many times over the years!

Ernestina 'Tina' Valeriano

Ernestina has been working as a professional guide for five years but everyone who meets her thinks she must have been born one! Born in Cusco and brought up speaking 'Quechua' - the language of the Incas - Tina has a profound knowledge and connection with the Andes and her personality makes her a real favourite not just with the clients but will all the trekking and touring staff.

Simon Yates

Simon has been at the very forefront of mountaineering for almost two decades with first ascents in the Andes, Himalaya and Karakoram. Best known as the climbing partner to Joe Simpson in Touching the Void, Simon has developed a strong reputation as an engaging expedition leader.

Victor Olarte

Victor has been one of the managers and is the driving force of the World Expeditions office in Cusco for more than 25 years and has a superb knowledge of the complexities of adventure travel. He really was one of the pioneers in Cusco and remains a well respected member of the tourism community. There is no problem that Victor cannot solve having met thousands of our clients during their time in the highlands of Peru.

Joana Miranda

Joana is one of our youngest guides and is a university graduate of Archaeology and Andean Mythology. She was born in the highlands of Cusco and speaks Quechua, English, Spanish and Portuguese. Joana is happiest leading our longer treks, though still feels that the classic high Inca Trail is the most beautiful Andes short trek.

Lily Caceres

Lily is the operations manager of the World Expeditions Cusco office and has overseen all our tours and treks for more than two decades. She has real attention to detail and makes sure that every little detail is carefully organised by our large team of professional guides and camp-staff in the Andes. Come rain or shine Lily will have it covered!

There's nothing Greg enjoys more than setting out in search of adventure in Latin America. This passion shines through in the breadth of unique adventures reflected in the fantastic line-up of trips on offer. Greg is drawn to the beauty of this region's scenery, fascinating history, varied cultures and most of all, its people.

Sarah Higgins

Sarah joined World Expeditions in 2006 and became operations manager in 2010. South America is her second home and she has enjoyed many adventures in its beautiful landscapes. Her travels include 'across the circle' into Antarctica, among many others. When Sarah is not planning itineraries you'll find her out on the 'rock' and in the Australian bush with her avid interest in rock climbing and bushwalking.

Dr Ross Anderson

Dr Anderson lives with his wife in a small town near the Lakes District in the north of England. He is a family doctor and spends much of his spare time travelling as an expedition doctor. He has more than 10 years of altitude and travel medicine experience. Previous treks and expeditions have focused on the Himalayas, with others in the Scandinavian Arctic and mountainous areas of Africa. He also enjoys trail running, cycling and open-water swimming.

A custom made itinerary is the ultimate way to see the world how YOU want. They are created especially for you, giving you complete freedom to choose what you want to see, where you want to go and when you want to do it. If you love our current itineraries but want to customise it privately as a couple, a group of friends, family, club, business or school, you have the freedom to add or remove as many elements as you like to suit the interests of your group. Alternatively, you can start with a blank canvas and create a new and exciting itinerary from scratch! Our well-travelled consultants can give you firsthand suggestions and eliminate any uncertainty with trip planning to ensure you maximise the quality of your experience and get truly off the beaten track. Simply email, phone or visit us to start planning your dream adventure.

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Where to Go

Trek to the mind-boggling Machu Picchu and other Inca ruins

Explore Cuzco, capital of the ancient Inca empire

Marvel at the incredible fauna and lowland jungles of Amazonia

Get amongst Quechua culture in the Andean highlands

Enjoy food, museums, galleries and nightlife in the capital of Lima

Warm yourself on the sunny beaches of the Costa’s northern coast

Experience the countless religious & cultural festivals

Join Peru’s obsessive focus on food

Shop for colourful Peruvian handicrafts

The main trekking season in Peru lasts from late April - mid October. This is the dry but 'cold' period, with the best mountain views and all passes open.

The Costa dry coastal desert region experiences mild average daily temperatures ranging from 19 °C (66 °F) in winter to 22 °C (72 °F) in summer. Rain-bearing winds from the Amazon Basin are blocked by the Andes mountain system, contributing to the west coast of South America having one of the driest climates on Earth. Despite this, coastal fogs (garúa) provide some areas of the Costa with sufficient moisture to support some vegetation. These fogs cloak the central and southern beaches from April - early December, but coastal cities can be visited all year regardless, and the northern beaches will keep sun-worshippers happy year-round.

Variance in latitude, elevation and local winds all factor into the wide range of climates experienced in the central Sierra/Andean mountain region. Average temperatures in the Sierra vary little between seasons, but there is dramatic daily variance. While the average daily temp may only vary a few °C between January and July, the diurnal (daily) temp range is often huge: you can expect daytime temperatures in the highlands to be in the range of 10-25 °C (50-77 °F), falling as low as -10 °C (14 °F) at night.

Higher elevations in the Sierra receive snow falls, with many peaks having permanent snow caps. In general, temperatures decrease as elevation increases, and rainfall decreases from north to south and from east to west. November – March brings the rainy season to the Sierra highlands, with the heaviest precipitation in the north and along the eastern flanks of the Andes, facing the Amazon Basin. Some trek routes do not operate at these times due to possible wet conditions on the passes, but the heavy rain periods do not usually arrive until late January.

The eastern Amazonia region is characterised by wet tropical conditions. High rainfall is common throughout the year, although somewhat heavier from December - March. As in the Sierra region, there is little variance in seasonal average temperature but relatively large daily temperature variation, with daily temperatures often ranging from lows of 15 °C (60s°F) to highs of mid-30s °C (mid-90s °F). Be prepared to shelter from rain pretty much all year, but be consoled by the fact that downpours rarely last more than a few hours.

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Peru is -5 hours behind UTC/GMT

Peru is a country of great linguistic diversity. Spanish is the main official language, spoken by 84.1% of the population; Quechua is the second official language spoken by 13%; followed by the third official language of Aymara at 1.7%; then Ashaninka 0.3%; other native languages (including a large number of minor Amazonian languages) 0.7%; and Other 0.2%. Some English (and other European languages) is spoken in cities and major tourist areas, but attempts to speak basic Spanish will be well received.

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US dollars are easily changed.

Credit cards and ATM are available in most large cities and hotels, however it is not recommended to rely on these solely.

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Electricity in Peru is 220 Volts, at 60 hertz. The most common pin types are A. (2 flat prong) or type C. (2 round prong).

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For all other nationalities and longer stays please contact the relevant embassy.

If you are entering Peru from Bolivia, Ecuador, or any land border, please ensure you source a Peruvian entry stamp at the border. Take initiative at the immigration checkpoint, as they may not approach you. Failure to obtain an entry stamp requires applying for an exit or expulsion order at the Immigration Office in Lima. Without this order, air travel out of Peru is not allowed, and it may lead to a 10-year ban on re-entry. Please note however that passports will not receive immigration entry or exit stamps at any international airport in Peru. Instead, entry and exit from the country will be digitally recorded.

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Peru Day Tours

Andean Photo Expeditions specializes in Peru Sightseeing and out of the beaten path tourism. Providing high quality Peru tours, attraction tickets and day trips to other incredible destinations of Peru, such as local community visits, Paracas , Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain and the cities like Lima or Cusco . Book one of our guided tours, Photo Day Tour , or a Day trip away from the cities, and learn more about the culture and beauty of Peru and beyond.

Awarded Day Tours from Lima

Award-Winning Lima Photo Day Tour

Escape Lima Photo Tour

Paracas & Huacachina

Lima Cemetery Tour: Nueva Esperanza Exploration

Lima Helicopter Tour: See the City From the Sky

Our famous Day Tours from Cusco

Cusco Helicopter Photo Experience

Humantay Lake Day Tour

Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain Sunrise

Pallay Punchu Tour: Full-Day Photographic Expedition in the Andes

Full-Day Cusco Region Tours: Photo Shooting Experience

Cusco Photo Tour: Capture the Essence of the Incan Capital

Cusco Night Tour: Capture The Magic of Incas Capital After Dark

The Faces of Peru & Andean Community Full Day Tour

Machu Picchu Day Tour

The Alternative Rainbow Mountain

Reviews from some of the people we've been lucky to meet and tour with., our tours published & recommended.