relatives of loons crossword clue – All Crossword Answers

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Solutions for "relatives of loons crossword clue" by Letter Count

5 Letters

DUCKS: While more distantly related, certain diving duck species share habitats and characteristics with loons, sometimes appearing as a broader 'relative' in clues.

6 Letters

GREBES: Aquatic diving birds, often confused with loons due to similar appearance and behavior. They are both primarily freshwater diving birds.

10 Letters

MERGANSERS: A type of diving duck often found in similar aquatic environments to loons and grebes, known for their fish-eating habits and sleek appearance.

More About "relatives of loons crossword clue"

Loons (known as Divers in Europe) are iconic aquatic birds, famous for their haunting calls and incredible diving abilities. They belong to the order Gaviiformes and are strictly freshwater birds during breeding season, migrating to coastal waters in winter. Their sleek bodies and powerful legs positioned far back on their bodies make them exceptional swimmers, but awkward on land.

When crosswords ask for "relatives of loons," they often point to other diving water birds that share similar characteristics or habitats. GREBES are a prime example. These birds are also expert divers, and while not genetically close relatives (belonging to the order Podicipediformes), they occupy similar ecological niches and are frequently mistaken for loons due to their similar size, shape, and behavior in the water. The clue might also stretch to include other diving waterfowl like certain types of DUCKS, especially MERGANSERS, which also hunt fish underwater.

Understanding these subtle distinctions and broader biological categories can be key to unlocking such crossword clues. The best approach is to consider the number of letters required and the context of the overall puzzle.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical crossword answer for 'relatives of loons'?

The most common and accepted answer for 'relatives of loons' in crosswords is GREBES. Both are aquatic diving birds that inhabit similar environments and share certain characteristics, leading to frequent confusion among birdwatchers and puzzle solvers alike.

Are loons and grebes in the same bird family?

No, loons belong to the family Gaviidae (order Gaviiformes), while grebes belong to the family Podicipedidae (order Podicipediformes). Though they look similar and share habits like diving for fish, they are distinct bird families with different evolutionary paths.

How can I improve my crossword-solving skills for nature clues?

To improve your skills for nature and animal-related clues, familiarize yourself with common terms for birds, mammals, fish, and plants. Pay attention to specific characteristics mentioned in the clue (e.g., 'diving bird,' 'aquatic mammal'), and consider synonyms or scientific classifications that might fit the letter count. Reading about general knowledge, including natural history and regional wildlife, can be very beneficial for these types of clues.