marsupial crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "marsupial" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, sorted by letter count, along with brief explanations to help you complete your grid.
Solutions for "marsupial crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
KOALA: An arboreal marsupial native to Australia, famous for eating eucalyptus leaves.
6 Letters
WOMBAT: A short-legged, muscular burrowing marsupial found in Australia.
POSSUM: A nocturnal marsupial, typically smaller than an opossum, found in Australia and New Guinea.
7 Letters
WALLABY: A macropod native to Australia and New Guinea, similar to a kangaroo but generally smaller.
OPOSSUM: A marsupial native to the Americas, known for 'playing dead'.
8 Letters
KANGAROO: A large macropod native to Australia, famous for its powerful hind legs and hopping locomotion.
More About "marsupial crossword clue"
Marsupials are a fascinating group of mammals, making them excellent subjects for crossword clues due to their distinct characteristics and often unique names. Unlike placental mammals, marsupials give birth to relatively undeveloped live young, which then typically complete their development in a maternal pouch (marsupium).
The term "marsupial" itself comes from the Latin "marsupium," meaning "pouch." While many immediately think of Australian animals like kangaroos and koalas when they hear "marsupial," it's important to remember that they are also native to the Americas, with the opossum being a prime example. Their diverse habitats and behaviors provide a rich pool of clues for puzzle setters.
When you encounter a clue like "marsupial" in a crossword, consider the number of letters first. This is your primary hint. Then, think about the most famous marsupials globally, and also consider regional variations that might be specific to the puzzle's origin (e.g., Australian vs. American crosswords).
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters: Always start by counting the squares provided for the answer. This immediately narrows down the possibilities for any crossword clue, especially for broad categories like "marsupial."
- Check Cross-References: If you have some intersecting letters from other clues, use them! This is the most effective way to confirm or eliminate potential answers for a challenging clue.
- Consider Commonality: Crossword puzzles often use the most well-known examples for common categories. For "marsupial," think of the most iconic animals first before delving into obscure species.
- Look for Plurals or Tenses: Pay attention to the clue's wording. Is it singular or plural? Does it imply a past or present tense? These details can often change the last letter or two of an answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a marsupial?
A marsupial is a type of mammal characterized by a pouch (called a marsupium) in which the female carries and suckles her young. They are primarily found in Australia and the Americas.
How can I figure out the letter count for a crossword answer?
Crossword puzzles typically indicate the exact number of letters required for an answer, either in parentheses after the clue (e.g., Marsupial (8)) or by the number of empty squares provided in the grid itself.
Are there marsupials living outside of Australia?
Yes, while Australia is home to many iconic marsupials like kangaroos and koalas, marsupials such as opossums are native to the Americas. Some species of opossum can be found as far north as Canada.