diving bird crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find all the possible solutions and explanations for the crossword clue "diving bird", organized by letter count to help you quickly complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "diving bird crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
AUK: A small, stocky, short-necked diving seabird found in the northern oceans.
4 Letters
LOON: A large aquatic bird known for its haunting calls and superb diving ability. Also known as a Diver.
TERN: A graceful seabird, many species of which plunge-dive for fish.
5 Letters
GREBE: A freshwater diving bird, often mistaken for a duck, known for its unique feet and courtship rituals.
6 Letters
GANNET: A large, white seabird famous for its spectacular high-speed plunge-diving.
PUFFIN: A distinctive, brightly-billed seabird adept at diving for fish.
9 Letters
CORMORANT: A dark, long-necked diving bird found worldwide, often seen perched with wings spread to dry.
MERGANSER: A type of diving duck with a long, serrated bill used for catching fish.
More About "diving bird crossword clue"
The term "diving bird" in crosswords usually refers to a fascinating group of avian species perfectly adapted for life in or near water. These birds possess unique physiological traits that enable them to dive deep and hold their breath for extended periods, often in pursuit of fish or other aquatic prey. Their streamlined bodies, powerful legs positioned far back on their bodies, and sometimes specialized bills or webbed feet make them masters of the underwater world.
From the iconic loons (known as 'divers' in some regions) whose haunting calls echo across northern lakes, to the swift-plunging Gannets of coastal cliffs, and the widespread Cormorants drying their wings in the sun, these birds offer a rich source of clues for puzzle setters. Understanding their common names and distinctive behaviors can often be the key to cracking related crossword entries.
Puzzles frequently focus on the most well-known diving birds, sometimes hinting at their habitat (freshwater vs. saltwater), their hunting methods, or unique appearance. Recognizing these common associations can significantly speed up your puzzle-solving process.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: Always start by counting the available spaces. This immediately narrows down the possibilities for "diving bird" and helps eliminate long shots.
- Think About Common Examples: Puzzle setters often reuse popular answers. For "diving bird", think of widely recognized species like LOON, GREBE, AUK, or GANNET as your first guesses.
- Look for Intersecting Letters: Use any letters already filled in from crossing words. These are your most powerful clues for confirming or eliminating potential answers for "diving bird."
- Contextual Clues: Sometimes the clue might offer more than just "diving bird." It might specify "Northern diving bird" (hinting at LOON or AUK) or "Fish-eating diving bird" (pointing to CORMORANT or MERGANSER). Pay attention to these subtle hints.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What characteristics help identify a 'diving bird' in crosswords?
When solving crosswords for 'diving bird', look for answers referring to birds known for aquatic prowess, such as those with streamlined bodies, webbed feet, or a history of plunging for fish. Common answers include LOON, GREBE, AUK, GANNET, and CORMORANT.
Are there different types of 'diving birds' often featured in puzzles?
Yes, crossword puzzles often feature various types of diving birds. Some might be sea birds (like AUKs, GANNETs, CORMORANTs, PUFFINs), while others are freshwater birds (like LOONs or GREBEs). Pay attention to the clue's context for hints about habitat or specific behaviors.
How can I quickly find the right answer for 'diving bird' if I'm stuck?
If you're stuck on 'diving bird', first check the number of letters required. Then, consider common examples like LOON (4 letters), GREBE (5 letters), or GANNET (6 letters). If you have a few letters filled in, try to match them with these possibilities. Online resources like Crosswordanswer.co.uk can also provide quick solutions based on letter count.