ring tailed mammal wsj crossword

Sandra Almird

2 min read

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02-01-2025

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The Wall Street Journal crossword puzzle, known for its challenging clues, often features cryptic or indirect references. One such clue that might stump even seasoned solvers is a simple yet misleading phrase like "Ring-tailed mammal." Let's explore this clue, drawing on insights from crosswordfiend.com (while giving proper attribution), and delve deeper into the solution and the puzzle-solving process.

The Clue: "Ring-tailed mammal"

This clue directly points towards a creature characterized by its distinctive ringed tail. While seemingly straightforward, the challenge lies in the vast number of mammals possessing tails. The solver must pinpoint the specific animal commonly associated with this feature.

The Answer: LEMUR

Crosswordfiend.com (and many other crossword resources) lists "Lemur" as the answer to the clue "Ring-tailed mammal."

Analysis and Deeper Dive

The solution, LEMUR, is a clever play on common knowledge. While many mammals have tails, the ring-tailed lemur stands out due to its highly recognizable, distinctively banded tail. This tail is not only a striking visual feature but also serves crucial functions for the lemur, including balance, communication, and social signaling.

Why is this clue effective?

The clue's effectiveness stems from its simplicity and deceptiveness. It's a direct clue, yet requires a level of specific knowledge about animals. It avoids overly obscure vocabulary, but challenges the solver's ability to connect a common characteristic (ringed tail) with a specific animal.

Practical Application and Further Exploration

Understanding this clue and its answer can help you approach similar clues in future crosswords. Look for clues that emphasize a unique or distinguishing characteristic of an animal, plant, or object.

Here are some similar clue types and potential solutions:

• "Striped feline": TIGER (or potentially a different striped cat depending on the crossword's difficulty).
• "Long-necked reptile": GIRAFFE (note that this stretches the definition of "reptile", playing on common knowledge).
• "Black and white bear": PANDA

Remember to consider the crossword's difficulty level when analyzing these clues. A tougher puzzle might require more obscure knowledge or utilize more complex wordplay.

Beyond the Crossword: Learning About Lemurs

While solving the crossword might be your primary goal, exploring the answer itself can be rewarding. The ring-tailed lemur is a fascinating creature found in Madagascar. Researching these animals can deepen your understanding of wildlife, conservation, and the diversity of life on our planet. This adds an enriching layer beyond simply solving a puzzle.

In conclusion, the seemingly simple "Ring-tailed mammal" clue, as highlighted by the implicitly used information from crosswordfiend.com, illustrates the subtle art of crossword construction and the satisfying feeling of solving a challenging puzzle. The exploration of this clue provides a pathway to appreciating the unique characteristics of animals and the wider context of natural world.