weasels relative crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! Here you'll find all possible solutions and detailed explanations for the crossword clue "weasels relative crossword". We've broken down answers by letter count to help you quickly complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "weasels relative crossword" by Letter Count
4 Letters
MINK: A semi-aquatic, carnivorous mammal of the weasel family, valued for its fur and often found near water bodies.
5 Letters
STOAT: A small, agile carnivorous mammal closely related to weasels, also known as a short-tailed weasel, identifiable by its black-tipped tail.
OTTER: A semi-aquatic carnivorous mammal belonging to the Mustelidae family (weasel family), known for its sleek body and playful nature.
6 Letters
FERRET: A domesticated polecat, a species of mustelid (weasel family) often kept as pets, known for its long, slender body and curious disposition.
BADGER: A nocturnal, burrowing mammal of the weasel family (Mustelidae), recognizable by its distinctive black and white striped face.
More About "weasels relative crossword"
The clue "weasels relative crossword" points to the diverse family of Mustelidae, which encompasses a wide range of small to medium-sized carnivorous mammals. This family includes not only weasels themselves but also an array of other fascinating creatures, all sharing common evolutionary traits such as long bodies, short legs, and often, strong scent glands for communication and defense.
Members of the Mustelidae family are found across most continents and occupy various ecological niches, from the aquatic world of otters to the subterranean realms of badgers. Understanding this broader family of animals can often unlock multiple potential answers for a crossword clue, as many different animals fit the 'weasel relative' description depending on the desired letter count.
Common examples frequently appearing in crosswords include the agile stoat, the domestic ferret, the water-loving otter, the resilient badger, and the fur-bearing mink. Each offers a unique set of characteristics that might be hinted at in more specific clues, but for a general "weasels relative" clue, any of these are prime candidates.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Broaden Your Animal Kingdom Knowledge: Many crossword clues relate to animal categories. For "weasels relative," knowing the Mustelidae family opens up several possibilities. Try to learn common animal classifications.
- Consider Synonyms and Subcategories: Even if a direct answer isn't obvious, think about synonyms for the clue's keywords or smaller groups within a larger category.
- Check Letter Count First: Always match the number of available boxes to your potential answers. This is often the quickest way to narrow down options from multiple possibilities.
- Look for Common Crossword Answers: Certain words appear frequently in crosswords due to their common letter patterns or unique meanings. Build a mental library of these.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Mustelidae family?
The Mustelidae family is a diverse group of carnivorous mammals that includes weasels, stoats, ferrets, otters, badgers, and minks. They are typically long-bodied, short-legged, and often possess strong scent glands, adapted to various habitats globally.
How do I find a crossword answer when I only have a few letters?
Try to identify common prefixes or suffixes within the given letters, consider the clue's definition for synonyms, and think about common crossword patterns or themes. Using an online crossword solver with known letters can also be highly effective.
Are stoats and weasels the same animal?
No, while closely related and both members of the Mustelidae family, stoats (Mustela erminea) are generally larger than least weasels (Mustela nivalis). Stoats also have a distinct black tip on their tail, which is absent in most weasels.