weasels cousin crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're tackling the clue "weasels cousin crossword", you've come to the right place. We provide all possible solutions, clearly organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to boost your crossword-solving skills.
Solutions for "weasels cousin crossword" by Letter Count
4 Letters
MINK: A semi-aquatic carnivorous mammal of the weasel family, valued for its fur. Minks are closely related to weasels, sharing similar body structures and predatory habits.
5 Letters
STOAT: Also known as a short-tailed weasel, this mammal is a true weasel family member. Its fur changes from brown to white in winter, when it is called an ermine.
6 Letters
FERRET: A domesticated form of the European polecat, which is itself a species within the weasel family. Ferrets are often kept as pets or used for hunting.
MARTEN: A slender, agile carnivorous mammal of the weasel family, typically found in wooded areas. Martens are known for their valuable fur and arboreal habits.
More About "weasels cousin crossword"
The Mustelidae family is incredibly diverse, encompassing a wide range of carnivorous mammals often referred to as "weasel cousins." This family includes not only weasels but also badgers, otters, minks, martens, stoats, ferrets, and even wolverines. These animals share common evolutionary traits, such as long, slender bodies, short legs, and a keen predatory instinct, making them formidable hunters in their respective environments.
When a crossword clue points to a "weasel's cousin," it typically refers to another member of the Mustelidae family. The specific answer will depend on the number of letters required by the puzzle and sometimes on additional implicit context. For instance, a clue might hint at an aquatic cousin (like an otter or mink) or a domesticated one (like a ferret).
Understanding these familial relationships not only helps with crosswords but also provides fascinating insight into the animal kingdom. Many of these species play vital roles in their ecosystems, from controlling rodent populations to indicating environmental health. Their shared ancestry with the common weasel is a testament to the diverse adaptations within a single biological family.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters Carefully: Always check the exact number of letters required for the answer. This is the primary filter for multiple-solution clues like "weasels cousin."
- Look for Intersecting Letters: If you have letters filled in from intersecting words, use them as strong hints. They can quickly narrow down the possibilities for a given clue.
- Consider the Clue's Nuance: Sometimes, clues provide subtle hints about the specific type of "cousin." For example, "water-loving weasel's cousin" might point towards OTTER or MINK.
- Think Beyond the Obvious: Crosswords often use less common synonyms or more specific terms. If the common answer doesn't fit, think of related species or different names for the same animal (e.g., stoat/ermine).
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What animal is considered a "weasel's cousin" in biology?
Biologically, many animals are considered cousins of the weasel as they belong to the same family, Mustelidae. This family includes badgers, otters, minks, martens, stoats (ermines), ferrets, and wolverines. These animals share common characteristics such as elongated bodies, short legs, and carnivorous diets.
Why are there multiple answers for "weasels cousin" in crosswords?
Crossword clues often have multiple valid answers because the English language has many synonyms or related terms for a single concept. For 'weasels cousin', several distinct animals (like mink, stoat, ferret, marten) all fit the description, differing mainly by their letter count, which is determined by the specific crossword puzzle's design.
How can I determine the correct "weasels cousin" answer for my puzzle?
To find the correct answer, consider the number of letters required for the solution in your crossword. Clues are often quite specific to fit a certain length. Also, look at any intersecting letters you may already have filled in, as these will narrow down the possibilities significantly. Sometimes, the overall theme of the puzzle can also provide a hint.