crossword clue extinct birds – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "extinct birds", you've come to the right place. We provide all possible answers, organized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and efficiently.
Solutions for "crossword clue extinct birds" by Letter Count
3 Letters
MOA: Any of several species of large, flightless birds endemic to New Zealand, hunted to extinction by the Māori people by 1400 AD.
AUK: Refers to the Great Auk, a large, flightless seabird of the North Atlantic, hunted to extinction by the mid-19th century.
4 Letters
DODO: A large, flightless bird native to Mauritius, famously extinct since the mid-17th century due to human activity and introduced species.
10 Letters
TERRORBIRD: A common name for phorusrhacids, an extinct clade of large, carnivorous, flightless birds that were apex predators in South America during the Cenozoic era.
More About "extinct birds"
Extinct birds represent a significant loss to global biodiversity and are often poignant reminders of the impact of human activity on the environment. These fascinating creatures, from the iconic Dodo to the towering Moa, once thrived in diverse ecosystems worldwide. Their disappearance highlights critical periods in history, often coinciding with colonization, the introduction of invasive species, habitat destruction, or excessive hunting.
The study of extinct birds offers invaluable insights into evolution, paleontology, and conservation biology. By examining fossil records, historical accounts, and remaining DNA fragments, scientists can reconstruct their lives, understand the causes of their demise, and apply these lessons to protect endangered species today. Examples like the Passenger Pigeon, once numbering in the billions, show how even abundant species can vanish rapidly.
For crossword enthusiasts, "extinct birds" is a common clue category, testing knowledge of natural history and significant examples of species loss. Recognizing these names can often unlock difficult sections of a puzzle, making them valuable terms to add to your crossword vocabulary.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Common Examples: When faced with clues about extinct animals or birds, immediately think of the most well-known ones like Dodo, Moa, or Great Auk. These are frequently used in puzzles due to their recognition.
- Check Letter Count: The number of letters in the answer is your biggest clue. If you have a few options in mind, see which one fits the given length.
- Context is Key: Pay attention to any other words in the clue or surrounding completed words in the grid. Sometimes, the clue might hint at a specific region (e.g., "New Zealand's extinct bird") which narrows down options.
- Think Beyond Mammals: While dinosaurs are common, remember that birds, reptiles, and even insects can be extinct animals featured in clues. Broaden your thinking beyond just well-known large creatures.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most famous extinct bird?
Without a doubt, the Dodo is widely considered the most famous extinct bird. Its iconic image and story of rapid extinction due to human impact have made it a symbol of species loss.
How can I find answers to crossword clues about extinct animals?
To find answers for clues about extinct animals, consider common examples like the Dodo, Moa, or Passenger Pigeon. Also, think about more general terms such as 'dinosaur' or 'prehistoric beast' if the clue is broader. Specialized crossword hint sites or encyclopedias of extinct species can be very helpful.
Are all extinct birds ancient, like dinosaurs?
No, not all extinct birds are ancient. While birds evolved from dinosaurs, many species have gone extinct in relatively recent history, even in the last few centuries. Examples include the Dodo, Great Auk, and Passenger Pigeon, which disappeared due to human activities like hunting and habitat destruction, not just geological timeframes.