blowfly crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the "blowfly" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, along with explanations and letter counts to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately.
Solutions for "blowfly crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
FLY: A general term for an insect, which a blowfly is. This is often the most direct and common answer.
4 Letters
PEST: Blowflies are often considered a nuisance or pest, especially in warmer climates or around decaying matter.
6 Letters
MAGGOT: This refers to the larval stage of a blowfly, a common clue for this insect, focusing on its life cycle.
INSECT: A broader classification, as a blowfly is indeed an insect. This answer fits clues that are less specific about the type of fly.
10 Letters
BLUEBOTTLE: A specific, well-known type of blowfly, often recognized by its metallic blue body. A common specific answer for longer puzzles.
More About "blowfly crossword clue"
The term "blowfly" frequently appears in crossword puzzles due to its varied associations. Clues can range from straightforward definitions of the insect itself to more specific aspects like its larval stage (maggot) or its common name (bluebottle). Solvers should consider the context of the clue, paying attention to any hints about its size, color, or behavior, to determine the exact answer.
Blowflies are part of the Calliphoridae family and are known for their metallic coloration and their role as scavengers, often associated with decaying organic matter. Their presence in crosswords highlights how everyday phenomena, even those considered nuisances, can become interesting linguistic challenges when crafted into clues.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider synonyms and related terms: For clues like "blowfly," think about broader categories (insect), specific types (bluebottle), or life stages (maggot), and even their common characteristics (pest).
- Pay attention to letter count: The number of boxes in the grid is your best friend. If you have a few letters, think of the most direct term. For more letters, consider more specific or descriptive terms.
- Think about common crossword patterns: Many common animals, plants, or objects frequently appear. Knowing common answers for similar clues can give you a head start.
- Look for contextual hints: Does the clue mention "larva of a blowfly"? That points directly to MAGGOT. "Metallic fly"? Could be BLUEBOTTLE.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a blowfly?
A blowfly is a type of fly belonging to the family Calliphoridae, often distinguished by their metallic blue or green bodies. They are known for laying eggs on decaying matter and are common nuisance insects.
Why are blowflies common in crosswords?
Blowflies, like many common animals or objects, provide versatile clueing opportunities due to their various characteristics (pest, larvae, specific types like bluebottle) and their distinct names, making them suitable for different letter counts.
What other insect-related terms might appear in crosswords?
Common insect terms in crosswords include ANT, BEE, WASP, MOTH, BEETLE, LARVA, PUPA, and various types of flies, often clued by their characteristics, habitats, or scientific classifications.