eagle nest crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're tackling the 'eagle nest' crossword clue, you've landed in the right place. We've compiled all the common and less common solutions, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately.
Solutions for "eagle nest crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
EYRY: A common, shorter variant spelling for an eagle's nest.
5 Letters
AERIE: A term for the nest of a bird of prey, often high on a cliff or mountain.
EYRIE: A widely used alternative spelling for an eagle's nest, particularly in British English.
More About "eagle nest crossword clue"
The term "eagle nest" in crosswords almost invariably points to one of a few specific words: AERIE, EYRIE, or EYRY. These words are not just generic terms for any bird's nest but specifically refer to the large, often remote structures built by birds of prey like eagles, hawks, and falcons. An aerie (or eyrie) is typically constructed in a high, inaccessible location such as a cliff ledge, a tall tree, or a mountain peak, providing the birds with a commanding view and protection from predators.
Crossword constructors love these clues because they tap into a very specific vocabulary. While 'nest' itself is too general, 'aerie' and 'eyrie' offer a more precise, often more challenging, answer. The existence of multiple valid spellings (eyrie vs. eyry) also gives setters flexibility to fit their grid, making it a clever clue to include.
Understanding these terms not only helps you solve the current puzzle but also enriches your general knowledge about ornithology and the specific behaviors of these majestic birds. Eagles meticulously build their nests over many years, often adding to them each breeding season, creating substantial structures that can weigh hundreds of pounds.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: For clues like "eagle nest," immediately look at the required number of letters. This will often narrow down options between 'EYRY' (4 letters) and 'AERIE'/'EYRIE' (5 letters).
- Consider Alternative Spellings: Be aware that many common crossword answers, especially those derived from older English or specific jargon, can have multiple accepted spellings (e.g., 'EYRIE' and 'EYRY'). If one doesn't fit, try the alternative.
- Think Beyond the Obvious: Crosswords often use specific, less common synonyms. Instead of just "nest," think about the specialized terms used for animal homes, particularly for birds of prey or other unique creatures.
- Context is Key: While "eagle nest" is straightforward, other clues might have subtle nuances. Always consider the puzzle's theme or other intersecting words.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is another common term for an eagle's nest in crosswords?
The most common terms, besides 'nest', are 'aerie', 'eyrie', and 'eyry'. These are specific terms for a bird of prey's nest, typically built high up.
Why do "aerie" and "eyrie" often appear in crosswords?
These words are popular crossword answers because they are specific, somewhat less common vocabulary terms for a common concept (a bird's nest), and they offer variant spellings (e.g., 'eyrie' vs. 'eyry') which allows setters flexibility with letter counts.
Are "eyrie" and "eyry" interchangeable in crosswords?
Yes, 'eyrie' and 'eyry' are indeed interchangeable spellings of the same word, referring to a large nest of a bird of prey, especially an eagle, typically built high on a cliff or in a tall tree. Crossword constructors use them based on the required letter count for the puzzle.