duck also called merganser crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "duck also called merganser", you've come to the right place. Below you'll find all possible answers, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "duck also called merganser crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
SMEW: A small, distinctive duck species belonging to the merganser group, known for its striking plumage. Often appears in crosswords.
8 Letters
GOSANDER: An alternative common name for the Common Merganser, a large fish-eating duck found in freshwater habitats across the Northern Hemisphere.
9 Letters
GOOSANDER: Another widely used common name for the Common Merganser, particularly prevalent in Europe and Asia. It's a large diving duck that hunts fish.
More About "duck also called merganser crossword clue"
Mergansers are a fascinating group of ducks distinguished primarily by their unique, serrated bills, which are perfectly adapted for gripping slippery fish. This adaptation gives them the nickname "sawbills." While they are ducks, their specialized diet and diving capabilities set them apart from dabbling ducks often seen in ponds. The clue "duck also called merganser" often points to their common names or smaller, related species.
The Common Merganser, also known as the Goosander or Gosander, is one of the largest species in this group. Another frequently encountered merganser in crosswords is the Smew, a smaller, beautiful bird known for its striking black and white plumage. The variety of names and species within the merganser family makes them excellent candidates for crossword clues that require different letter lengths.
Understanding these distinctions can greatly aid in solving puzzles. When you encounter a clue referring to a duck with a specialized diet or a distinct bill, thinking of mergansers and their various names can quickly lead you to the correct answer, whether it's SMEW, GOSANDER, or GOOSANDER.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Think of Synonyms and Alternative Names: Many crossword clues, especially for common animals or objects, rely on less common or regional names. For "duck also called merganser", remember Goosander and Gosander are interchangeable.
- Consider Sub-Species or Closely Related Types: If a general term like "duck" is used, the answer might be a specific type or a smaller species within that category, like Smew for mergansers.
- Check Letter Count First: Always match the possible answers to the number of letters required by the grid. This immediately narrows down your options and is crucial for multi-answer clues like this one.
- Use Contextual Clues: The surrounding clues or already filled-in letters can often provide hints about the theme or letter patterns, helping you confirm your choice.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a merganser?
Mergansers are a group of diving ducks in the family Anatidae, characterized by their slender, serrated bills adapted for catching fish. They are often referred to as 'sawbills' due to this unique bill structure.
Why are there multiple answers for 'duck also called merganser'?
Crossword puzzles frequently use synonyms, alternative common names, or specific sub-types of a broader category. 'Merganser' has several common names (like Gosander, Goosander) and related, smaller species (like Smew) that fit different letter counts, making them versatile crossword solutions.
How can I identify merganser clues in crosswords?
Look for clues that hint at fish-eating ducks, diving birds, or specific types of ducks with distinctive bills. Terms such as 'sawbill,' 'fish duck,' or references to unique bill structures are strong indicators for merganser-related answers.