crossword clue for wading bird – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate resource for solving the trickiest crossword puzzles. Here you'll find comprehensive answers and explanations for the clue 'wading bird', helping you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "crossword clue for wading bird" by Letter Count
4 Letters
IBIS: A long-legged wading bird with a long, downcurved bill, found in warm regions.
5 Letters
HERON: A large, long-legged wading bird with a long neck and a long, sharp bill, typically found in marshes and wetlands.
EGRET: A type of heron, typically white, known for its elegant plumes, often found in marshy areas.
STORK: A large, long-legged, long-necked wading bird with a long, stout bill, typically found in open country near water.
6 Letters
PLOVER: A shorebird typically found on beaches or open grasslands, known for its short bill and distinctive run-and-peck foraging.
More About "crossword clue for wading bird"
Wading birds are a diverse group of birds typically characterized by their long legs, allowing them to stand and forage in shallow water. These birds are adapted to various wetland habitats, including marshes, swamps, coastlines, and riverbanks, where they hunt for fish, amphibians, insects, and other aquatic prey.
Common examples include herons, egrets, storks, ibises, and spoonbills, each with unique bill shapes specialized for their feeding habits. For instance, the long, pointed bill of a heron is perfect for spearing fish, while the downcurved bill of an ibis helps it probe mud for invertebrates. Their presence is often an indicator of healthy wetland ecosystems.
In crosswords, clues for "wading bird" can sometimes be straightforward, asking for a common species, or more descriptive, hinting at their physical attributes or typical environment. Understanding the common types and their features can greatly aid in solving these clues.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider the letter count: The number of blanks provided often narrows down possibilities significantly, especially for common wading bird names like IBIS (4 letters), HERON or EGRET (5 letters).
- Think about synonyms and related terms: Sometimes, the clue might not directly name a bird but describe its actions or habitat. For example, "marsh bird" or "long-legged feeder" could also point to a wading bird.
- Look for common crossword patterns: Certain birds are very popular in puzzles due to their commonality and convenient letter lengths. Familiarize yourself with these regulars.
- Utilize surrounding clues: Letters from intersecting words are your best friends. Even one confirmed letter can unlock a difficult wading bird answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common characteristics of a wading bird in crosswords?
In crosswords, wading birds are often clued by their long legs, association with water (marshes, wetlands), or specific types like herons, egrets, or ibises.
Are 'shorebird' and 'wading bird' the same in crossword terms?
While many shorebirds are also wading birds, 'wading bird' generally refers to species that wade in shallow water to feed, often larger, whereas 'shorebird' is a broader category for birds found on shores, including many smaller species that don't wade as deeply.
How can I quickly identify a wading bird answer if I only have a few letters?
If you have limited letters, focus on common crossword answers first, like IBIS (4 letters), HERON or EGRET (5 letters). The length is often the most critical hint. Also, consider if the clue implies a specific feature like a long bill (e.g., CURLEW, IBIS).