honey badger crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling a puzzle and are stumped by the clue "honey badger," you've come to the right place. Below you'll find the most common and accurate answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your crossword with ease.
Solutions for "honey badger crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
RATEL: Another name for the honey badger, known for its tenacity and often used in puzzles.
8 Letters
FEARLESS: A key trait of the honey badger, often confronting larger predators without hesitation.
9 Letters
MELLIVORA: The genus name for the honey badger (Mellivora capensis), occasionally appearing in more technical clues.
More About "honey badger crossword clue"
The honey badger, also known as the ratel (Mellivora capensis), is a fascinating creature native to Africa, Southwest Asia, and the Indian subcontinent. Despite its name, it's not a true badger but belongs to the weasel family (Mustelidae), sharing traits with stoats and ferrets. Its notoriety in the animal kingdom, and thus in crosswords, stems from its astonishing bravery and resilience.
Renowned for its fearless demeanor, the honey badger is known to confront highly venomous snakes, lions, and hyenas. Its thick, loose skin provides excellent protection, and its powerful claws are not only for digging burrows but also for defense. Their intelligence is also noteworthy, with documented cases of them using tools and solving complex problems to obtain food. These unique characteristics make the honey badger a popular and often challenging subject for crossword constructors.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Alternative Names: For animal clues like "honey badger," always think if there's a lesser-known but official or common alternative name, such as "RATEL" for the honey badger.
- Focus on Key Characteristics: If a direct name isn't fitting, consider the animal's defining traits. For a honey badger, words like "FEARLESS," "TOUGH," or "BRAVE" might be the answer.
- Check Scientific Terminology: While less common, some advanced puzzles might delve into scientific classifications like genus or species names (e.g., "MELLIVORA").
- Cross-Reference with Other Clues: Always use intersecting letters from other clues to narrow down possibilities. If a five-letter word fits, "RATEL" is a strong candidate for "honey badger."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is another name for a honey badger often found in crosswords?
The honey badger is also widely known by its Afrikaans name, RATEL. This shorter, distinctive name makes it a frequent answer in crossword puzzles.
Why are honey badgers popular subjects in crossword clues?
Honey badgers are popular because of their fierce reputation, distinctive characteristics (like fearlessness and toughness), and their unique alternative name, RATEL. These traits offer various angles for clue-setting.
What are some key characteristics of the honey badger?
Key characteristics include extreme fearlessness, surprising intelligence, a thick, loose skin that protects them from bites, powerful claws for digging, and a diverse diet, including venomous snakes. They are highly tenacious and resilient.