animals crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the "animals" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of potential answers, sorted by length, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track and solving your puzzle.
Solutions for "animals crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
CAT: A popular domesticated mammal often kept as a pet, known for its purr.
DOG: Man's best friend, a domesticated carnivorous mammal often trained for various tasks.
4 Letters
LION: A large, carnivorous feline, often called the "king of the jungle" or "king of beasts."
BEAR: A large, heavy, furry mammal with a short tail, known for its hibernation in some species.
5 Letters
TIGER: A large solitary cat with a distinctive striped coat, native to the forests of Asia.
SNAKE: A legless reptile with a long, scaly body that moves by slithering.
7 Letters
GIRAFFE: The tallest living terrestrial animal, known for its extremely long neck and legs.
8 Letters
ELEPHANT: The largest existing land animal, characterized by its long trunk, large ears, and tusks.
More About "animals crossword clue"
The clue "animals" or variations thereof (e.g., "creatures," "beasts") is a very common and broad category in crosswords, encompassing a vast array of living beings from the smallest insects to the largest mammals. To successfully solve these clues, puzzlers often need to consider the specific context, the number of letters, and any additional descriptors within the clue.
Animals can be categorized in many ways: domestic (pets, farm animals), wild (mammals, reptiles, birds, fish), mythical, or even by their habitat (jungle, ocean, desert). Sometimes the clue will hint at a specific group, for example, "Arctic animal" pointing to a POLARBEAR or "farmyard resident" for a PIG. Understanding these subtle cues is key to narrowing down the possibilities and finding the exact animal the puzzle setter has in mind.
Crossword setters also love to use wordplay with animal names, such as anagrams, homophones, or clever definitions that play on common phrases involving animals. Always be on the lookout for these linguistic tricks when an animal clue seems too straightforward or too obscure.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider the Length: The most crucial hint for any crossword clue, especially "animals," is the number of letters. This immediately eliminates many possibilities.
- Think Broadly and Specifically: Start by brainstorming common animals, then branch out to more unusual or specific ones if the common answers don't fit the letter count or crossing letters. Remember farm animals, wild animals, birds, fish, and even insects.
- Look for Specific Descriptors: Does the clue mention a habitat ("jungle dweller"), a characteristic ("striped feline"), a sound ("barnyard brayer"), or a group ("herd member")? These details are invaluable for pinpointing the exact animal.
- Check Intersecting Letters: Use the letters you've already filled in from other clues to confirm or rule out potential animal answers. This is often the fastest way to verify an answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common animal categories in crosswords?
Common categories include pets (e.g., CAT, DOG), farm animals (e.g., COW, PIG), wild animals (e.g., LION, TIGER), birds (e.g., OWL, EAGLE), fish (e.g., COD, SHARK), and insects (e.g., ANT, BEE). The clue often hints at the category.
How can I identify a specific animal in a crossword clue?
Look for synonyms, specific characteristics (e.g., "striped feline" for TIGER), habitat (e.g., "jungle beast" for LION), or sounds (e.g., "barnyard brayer" for DONKEY). The number of letters is also a crucial hint.
Are mythical animals common in crosswords?
Yes, mythical animals like UNICORN, GRIFFIN, or DRAGON can appear, especially in themed puzzles or more challenging crosswords. Always consider if the clue has a fantastical or legendary context.