bird of prey crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! Here you'll find comprehensive solutions and explanations for the crossword clue "bird of prey crossword clue". We've gathered all possible answers, organized by letter count, to help you quickly complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "bird of prey crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
OWL: A nocturnal bird of prey known for its distinctive hoot and large eyes.
4 Letters
HAWK: A common bird of prey known for its sharp talons and keen eyesight.
KITE: A medium-sized bird of prey with long, pointed wings and a forked tail.
5 Letters
EAGLE: A large, powerful bird of prey, often a national symbol.
6 Letters
FALCON: A fast-flying bird of prey, often trained in falconry.
OSPREY: A large fish-eating bird of prey, often found near water bodies.
7 Letters
VULTURE: A large scavenging bird of prey, known for its bald head.
More About "bird of prey crossword clue"
Birds of prey, also known as raptors, are a fascinating group of birds characterized by their powerful talons, sharp beaks, and exceptional eyesight, which they use to hunt and feed on other animals. Common examples include eagles, hawks, falcons, and owls, each occupying a unique ecological niche.
In the world of crosswords, "bird of prey" is a classic clue that can lead to a variety of answers depending on the required letter count. These clues often test your general knowledge of zoology as well as your ability to think of synonyms and specific examples within a category. Recognizing common raptors like OWL (3 letters) or EAGLE (5 letters) is often key to unlocking these puzzle segments.
Mastering such clues involves not just knowing the species but also understanding their typical characteristics or roles that might be hinted at in the clue itself. For instance, a clue mentioning "nocturnal bird of prey" almost certainly points to OWL.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters: Always double-check the number of letters required for the answer. This is the single most important filter for "bird of prey" clues, quickly narrowing down possibilities like HAWK (4 letters) vs. FALCON (6 letters).
- Look for Adjectives: Pay close attention to any descriptive words in the clue. "Nocturnal," "scavenging," or "fast-flying" can directly lead you to specific raptors like OWL, VULTURE, or FALCON.
- Consider Commonality: Crossword puzzles often favor the most common or iconic examples. While many birds of prey exist, EAGLE, HAWK, OWL, and FALCON are frequent crossword answers due to their widespread recognition and varying lengths.
- Think of Sound or Behavior: Sometimes, clues might hint at a bird's sound (e.g., "hooting raptor") or a characteristic behavior (e.g., "soaring raptor"), which can be a direct path to the answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common birds of prey found in crosswords?
Crosswords frequently feature well-known birds of prey such as EAGLE, HAWK, FALCON, OWL, and KITE. These words are common due to their varying lengths and distinct characteristics, making them versatile for puzzle constructors.
How can the number of letters help me solve a 'bird of prey' clue?
Knowing the number of letters is crucial. If the clue asks for a 3-letter bird of prey, OWL is a strong candidate. For 4 letters, HAWK or KITE. For 5, EAGLE. Always use the letter count as a primary filter for potential answers when faced with a 'bird of prey' clue.
Are there any less common birds of prey that might appear in crosswords?
While less frequent, you might encounter answers like OSPREY (6 letters), MERLIN (6 letters), or even BUZZARD (7 letters). The puzzle's difficulty level often dictates whether more obscure birds of prey are used, so it's good to expand your avian vocabulary.