blackbirds crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the "blackbirds crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We provide all possible solutions categorized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get your puzzle solved quickly.
Solutions for "blackbirds crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
MERLES: European blackbirds, often appearing in crosswords for their distinctive plumage and song, derived from the French word for blackbird.
OUZELS: Another term for blackbirds, particularly the ring ouzel, commonly found in cryptic or older crosswords.
More About "blackbirds crossword clue"
The clue "blackbirds" is a classic in the crossword world, often leading solvers to discover less common but ornithologically accurate terms. While "blackbirds" might immediately bring to mind the common North American species or the European variety, crossword setters frequently use specific, sometimes archaic, or scientific terms to challenge solvers.
Terms like "MERLES" and "OUZELS" are prime examples. "Merle" is the French word for a blackbird (specifically Turdus merula, the common blackbird of Europe), and it has been adopted into English crosswordese. "Ouzel" refers to several thrush-like birds, including the ring ouzel, and serves as a clever alternative to the more obvious answer. Knowing these specific terms can significantly aid in solving puzzles that use natural world clues.
Understanding the nuances of these answers can also enhance your general knowledge about birds. The common blackbird is known for its beautiful song, often heard in gardens and parks across Europe. The ring ouzel, while similar, is often found in more mountainous or rocky habitats. Both are fascinating birds that add depth to the crossword experience.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider synonyms and foreign terms: For animal or plant clues, think beyond the most common name. Crosswords often use scientific names, regional terms, or even foreign words (like 'merle' for 'blackbird') that have entered English usage in a specialized context.
- Pay attention to letter count: Always check the number of letters. If "blackbirds" has a 6-letter answer, it immediately narrows down possibilities from 'MERLES' or 'OUZELS' rather than something longer.
- Look for related fields: Sometimes the clue hints at a specific field, like ornithology for birds, or botany for plants. Clues for blackbirds might link to their family (thrushes) or behaviors.
- Utilize cross-references: Don't just focus on the single clue. Look at intersecting words. If you have a few letters from crossing answers, it can quickly reveal the solution for "blackbirds."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common crossword answers for 'blackbirds'?
The most frequent answers for 'blackbirds' in crosswords are 'MERLES' and 'OUZELS', both referring to types of blackbirds, especially in European contexts.
Why are 'Merles' and 'Ouzels' often used in crosswords?
These terms are popular in crosswords because they are less common in everyday English than 'blackbirds' but are accurate ornithological terms, providing a challenge while being fair answers. 'Merle' is specifically the French term for blackbird, widely adopted in English crossword lingo. 'Ouzel' is an older or regional name for blackbirds or similar thrushes.
Are blackbirds a type of thrush?
Yes, common blackbirds (Turdus merula) are indeed a species of true thrush, belonging to the family Turdidae. This biological classification can sometimes provide additional clues for related puzzles.