small wildcat crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "small wildcat", you've come to the right place. We provide all possible solutions based on letter count, along with detailed explanations to help you understand why each answer fits. Let's conquer this clue together!
Solutions for "small wildcat crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
LYNX: A medium-sized wild cat known for its short tail and tufted ears, found across North America, Europe, and Asia. Often considered a 'small' wildcat in comparison to larger felines.
6 Letters
OCELOT: A beautiful spotted wild cat native to the Americas, often referred to as a small wildcat due to its size, which is similar to a large house cat.
BOBCAT: A North American wild cat, smaller than a lynx, recognized by its distinctive short, 'bobbed' tail. Its size classifies it as a small wildcat.
More About "small wildcat crossword clue"
The clue "small wildcat" is a common entry in crosswords that tests your knowledge of feline species, particularly those that are not as large as lions or tigers. These clues often point to specific characteristics, such as markings, habitat, or distinguishing features like ear tufts or tail length, which can help narrow down the answer.
Popular answers include the LYNX, known for its short tail and tufted ears; the OCELOT, recognized by its striking spotted coat; and the BOBCAT, named for its 'bobbed' tail. Other less common but possible answers could include MARGAY or SERVAL, depending on the puzzle's difficulty and specific definitions.
When you encounter this clue, think about both common and more exotic smaller feline predators. The letter count is crucial, as it often immediately eliminates many possibilities, leaving you with the correct fit for the grid.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Adjective: Pay close attention to adjectives like "small" or "large" in animal clues. These provide vital context, limiting the pool of possible answers to a specific size category.
- Consider Geographical Clues: Sometimes, the clue might subtly hint at a region (e.g., "African wildcat" or "Andean feline"). Combine this with the animal type and letter count for a quicker solution.
- Think About Distinctive Features: Many animal clues relate to a creature's unique characteristics. For "small wildcat," consider features like spots (OCELOT), tufts (LYNX), or short tails (BOBCAT) that might be implied or directly mentioned in other parts of the clue.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best strategy for solving crossword clues about animals?
When encountering animal clues like 'small wildcat', consider common and lesser-known species. Think about their characteristic features (spots, stripes, tufts) or their geographic location, as these often appear in the clue's phrasing. Also, keep in mind the letter count provided by the puzzle grid.
How do I deal with clues that have multiple possible answers?
If a clue has several potential answers, use intersecting letters from other solved clues to narrow down the options. The letter count provided by the puzzle grid is also crucial. Sometimes, the nuance of the clue's phrasing or the puzzle's theme can point to the specific correct answer.
Why are some wildcats considered 'small' in crosswords?
In crossword context, 'small wildcat' often refers to species like the Ocelot, Margay, Bobcat, or Lynx, which are significantly smaller than larger felids like lions, tigers, or jaguars. The term serves to distinguish them and guide solvers towards a specific size category within the feline family.