thylacine crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "thylacine crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We provide accurate answers and helpful explanations to get you through your puzzle.
Solutions for "thylacine crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
WOLF: Referring to the thylacine's common alternate name, the Tasmanian Wolf.
5 Letters
TIGER: Alluding to its other popular name, the Tasmanian Tiger, due to its striped back.
7 Letters
EXTINCT: A key characteristic, as the thylacine is believed to have become extinct in the 20th century.
9 Letters
MARSUPIAL: Categorizes the thylacine as a carnivorous marsupial, native to Australia and Tasmania.
TASMANIAN: Often used in relation to its primary habitat and its common names (Tasmanian Tiger/Wolf).
More About "thylacine crossword clue"
The thylacine, scientifically known as Thylacinus cynocephalus, was a unique carnivorous marsupial native to the Australian mainland, Tasmania, and New Guinea. It was the largest known carnivorous marsupial of modern times, distinguished by its dog-like appearance and the striking dark stripes across its lower back, which earned it the nickname "Tasmanian Tiger."
Sadly, the thylacine is widely considered to have gone extinct in the 20th century, with the last known individual, named Benjamin, dying in Hobart Zoo on September 7, 1936. Habitat destruction, hunting by European settlers, and disease are believed to have contributed to its demise. Despite numerous unconfirmed sightings, there is no definitive proof of its continued existence.
Its mysterious disappearance and distinctive appearance make the thylacine a fascinating subject for general knowledge and, consequently, a common and intriguing clue in crossword puzzles. Knowing its various names and key characteristics like "extinct" or "marsupial" can often unlock the answer.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters: Always double-check the required letter count for the answer. This is the most crucial hint in any crossword puzzle. For "thylacine," common answers can range from short (e.g., WOLF, TIGER) to longer ones (e.g., MARSUPIAL, TASMANIAN).
- Consider Aliases and Categories: Many animal clues, including the thylacine, have common alternative names (Tasmanian Tiger, Tasmanian Wolf) or belong to specific classifications (marsupial). Think broadly about related terms.
- Look for Context: If other letters are already filled in the grid, use them as context. They can help you narrow down the possibilities, especially when multiple answers fit the letter count.
- Think About Status: For animals, consider their conservation status. "EXTINCT" is a very common characteristic for the thylacine and can often be an answer itself.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a thylacine?
A thylacine, commonly known as the Tasmanian Tiger or Tasmanian Wolf, was a carnivorous marsupial native to Australia, Tasmania, and New Guinea. It is widely believed to have become extinct in the 20th century, with the last known individual dying in captivity in 1936.
Why is "Tasmanian" a common answer for thylacine clues?
The term 'Tasmanian' is frequently used because the thylacine's most enduring and widely known population was on the island of Tasmania. Its common names, Tasmanian Tiger and Tasmanian Wolf, directly reference this location, making 'Tasmanian' a strong associated word in crosswords.
Are there other names for the thylacine?
Yes, besides thylacine, its most common alternative names are the Tasmanian Tiger (due to its striped back) and the Tasmanian Wolf (due to its dog-like appearance and predatory nature). Other less common names include the zebra wolf, marsupial wolf, or native hyaena.