crossword extinct bird – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the clue "crossword extinct bird", you've come to the right place. We provide all possible solutions categorized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to boost your crossword-solving skills.
Solutions for "crossword extinct bird" by Letter Count
3 Letters
MOA: Large, flightless birds native to New Zealand, hunted to extinction by the Māori people by the 15th century. Some species grew up to 12 feet tall.
ROC: A gigantic, mythical bird of prey in Middle Eastern mythology and folklore, often appearing in crossword puzzles as an "extinct" or "legendary" bird due to its immense size and non-existence in reality.
4 Letters
DODO: A flightless bird endemic to the island of Mauritius, famously extinct since the mid-17th century due to human activity and introduced species. Its name has become synonymous with extinction.
More About "crossword extinct bird"
Crossword puzzles frequently use the theme of "extinct birds" due to the distinct and often short names associated with them, which fit well into grids. Birds like the Dodo from Mauritius and the Moa from New Zealand are prime examples of species whose disappearance is well-documented and whose names are universally recognized.
These clues test not only your vocabulary but also your general knowledge of natural history. While some answers like DODO and MOA refer to genuinely extinct species, you might occasionally encounter mythical birds like the ROC, which, though never real, are often clued as "extinct" or "legendary" within the context of the puzzle to challenge solvers.
Understanding these common answers and their contexts will give you a significant edge when tackling clues about vanished avian life in your next puzzle.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters: Always check the number of letters required for the answer. For "extinct bird," 3-letter answers often point to MOA or ROC, while 4-letter answers strongly suggest DODO.
- Consider Geographic Clues: Sometimes the clue might hint at the bird's origin, e.g., "Mauritius flightless bird" (DODO) or "New Zealand giant" (MOA).
- Think Beyond Reality: Be open to mythical creatures like the ROC when the clue is vague or refers to a "legendary" or "fabulous" extinct bird, especially if shorter letter counts are involved.
- Use Cross-References: If stuck, fill in other intersecting words first. The letters you uncover can provide vital clues for the "extinct bird" answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common extinct birds found in crosswords?
DODO and MOA are by far the most frequent answers for 'extinct bird' clues due to their distinct names and well-known extinction stories. ROC, though mythical, also appears regularly as a large, legendary bird often clued as 'extinct' in puzzles.
Why do crosswords often feature extinct animals?
Extinct animals, especially birds, often have short, unique names (like DODO, MOA) or evoke strong imagery (like ROC), making them ideal candidates for crossword clues and answers that fit various letter counts. They provide unique combinations of letters that are less common in everyday words.
How can I identify an extinct bird clue in a crossword?
Look for clues directly mentioning 'extinct,' 'vanished,' 'flightless (and extinct),' or specific geographical locations like 'Mauritius bird' or 'New Zealand giant.' Pay close attention to the number of letters required for the answer, as this will help narrow down possibilities like MOA (3 letters) vs. DODO (4 letters).