extinct flightless bird crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're tackling a crossword and the clue "extinct flightless bird" has you stumped, you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, complete with their lengths and explanations, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately.
Solutions for "extinct flightless bird crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
MOA: Giant extinct flightless birds native to New Zealand, some species reaching over 12 feet tall.
4 Letters
DODO: A famously extinct flightless bird from Mauritius, known for its distinctive appearance and docile nature.
9 Letters
AEPYORNIS: Also known as Elephant Birds, these were massive extinct flightless birds native to Madagascar.
10 Letters
TERRORBIRD: A large, predatory, flightless bird that lived in South America during the Cenozoic era, known for its powerful beak and legs.
More About "extinct flightless bird crossword clue"
The clue "extinct flightless bird" is a classic in the world of crosswords, often appearing due to the distinct and memorable nature of these fascinating creatures. The most common answers, DODO and MOA, highlight species that faced extinction largely due to human activity, making them poignant symbols in natural history and popular culture.
Understanding the context behind these birds can often provide a mental edge when solving. For instance, the Dodo's story is intrinsically linked to Mauritius, while the Moa are inseparable from New Zealand's ecological past. Other less common but still valid answers like AEPYORNIS (Elephant Birds) from Madagascar or the fearsome TERRORBIRD from ancient South America demonstrate the diversity of these incredible avian species.
When you encounter this clue, consider the number of letters first, as it will quickly narrow down the possibilities. If it's a short answer, think DODO or MOA. If a longer slot is available, you might need to dig a little deeper into the paleontological record.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters: Always start by counting the available spaces in the crossword grid. This is the most crucial step in narrowing down potential answers for "extinct flightless bird."
- Consider Commonality: DODO and MOA are by far the most frequent answers for this type of clue. Try these first, especially if the letter count matches.
- Think Regionally: Some extinct birds are tied to specific geographical regions (e.g., Dodo - Mauritius, Moa - New Zealand). If other clues in the puzzle hint at geography, it might guide your choice.
- Look for Cross-References: If a clue for an extinct bird appears, other clues might relate to natural history, zoology, or even specific island nations, providing subtle hints.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common extinct flightless birds found in crosswords?
The DODO and MOA are by far the most frequent answers for 'extinct flightless bird' clues due to their iconic status, unique characteristics, and relatively common word lengths. Less common but still possible include GASTORNIS or TERRORBIRD for longer answers.
How can I identify if an 'extinct flightless bird' clue requires a short or long answer?
The number of blanks in the crossword grid is your primary indicator. Common short answers are DODO (4 letters) and MOA (3 letters). If the grid has more spaces, consider longer possibilities like TERRORBIRD (10 letters) or AEPYORNIS (9 letters), which are also extinct flightless birds.
Are there any living flightless birds that might be mistaken for extinct ones in clues?
While many modern birds are flightless (e.g., OSTRICH, EMU, KIWI, PENGUIN), crossword clues specifically asking for 'extinct' flightless birds will point to species like the Dodo or Moa. Always pay close attention to the 'extinct' qualifier in the clue to avoid common pitfalls.