largest living rodent crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're searching for the solution to "largest living rodent crossword clue", you've come to the right place. We've got the most accurate answers and detailed explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "largest living rodent crossword clue" by Letter Count
8 Letters
CAPYBARA: The Capybara is the world's largest living rodent, native to South America, known for its semi-aquatic nature.
More About "largest living rodent crossword clue"
The Capybara, scientifically known as Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris, truly holds the title of the world's largest living rodent. These impressive animals can weigh up to 150 pounds (68 kg) and grow to be over 4 feet (1.2 meters) long. Native to the wetlands and savannas of South America, they are highly social creatures, often found in groups around water bodies like rivers, lakes, and swamps.
Their semi-aquatic lifestyle is a defining characteristic; Capybaras are excellent swimmers and can hold their breath for extended periods underwater, using this ability to escape predators like jaguars, pumas, and caimans. Their webbed feet and high-set eyes and nostrils are adaptations perfectly suited for their watery habitats. Despite their size, they are generally docile and are even known to peacefully coexist with other animal species, earning them a reputation as "nature's ottomans" in some circles.
When this clue appears in crosswords, it almost exclusively refers to the Capybara. Its unique name and distinct characteristics make it a popular answer for natural history and animal-themed puzzles.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider the Topic: Clues about animals often point to well-known species with unique attributes. "Largest" or "smallest" are strong indicators.
- Check Letter Count: For a clue like "largest living rodent", knowing the common answer (CAPYBARA) has 8 letters can immediately help narrow down possibilities or confirm your guess.
- Look for Synonyms/Descriptors: If a common answer doesn't fit, think of synonyms for 'largest' or 'rodent' that might be part of a less direct clue. Though in this specific case, CAPYBARA is usually quite direct.
- Cross-Reference: Always use intersecting words to confirm letters. A partially filled answer is easier to complete.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the largest rodent in the world?
The largest living rodent in the world is the Capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochoeris), native to South America. These fascinating creatures are known for their semi-aquatic lifestyle and calm demeanor.
How can I identify a Capybara as a crossword answer?
When solving crosswords, clues pointing to 'largest rodent,' 'South American mammal,' or 'semi-aquatic rodent' are strong indicators for CAPYBARA. Its eight-letter length is also a key hint for many puzzles.
Are there other animals that might be mistaken for the largest rodent in crosswords?
While the Capybara is definitively the largest living rodent, sometimes larger land mammals like bears or kangaroos might appear in clues if the context is broad or involves wordplay. However, for specific 'largest rodent' clues, CAPYBARA is almost universally the intended answer.