Staring down a particularly intricate
crossword clue
can be one of life’s small, delightful challenges. There are the clues that are straightforward wordplay, others that demand a deep dive into general knowledge, and then there are those that blend the two, requiring a very specific niche expertise. Today, we’re dissecting one such clue that has likely flummoxed many a solver who isn’t also a devoted board game enthusiast: “Animal home in the board game Wingspan.”
This isn’t just any “animal home”
crossword clue
. The addition of “in the board game Wingspan” elevates it from a simple vocabulary test to a fascinating intersection of avian biology, tabletop gaming mechanics, and the cunning of crossword construction. For those unfamiliar with the phenomenon that is Wingspan, it’s a wildly popular engine-building board game where players attract diverse birds to their wildlife preserves. The game is celebrated for its beautiful artwork, accurate ornithological details, and engaging gameplay. Birds are the stars, and naturally, where they live and lay their eggs is central to their existence – and to the game’s theme.
When we think about general “animal homes,” a vast array of possibilities springs to mind. We have the classic “nest,” “den,” “burrow,” “hive,” “aerie,” “sett,” “roost,” “lodge,” “drey,” and many more. Each of these terms describes a specific type of dwelling constructed or occupied by an animal. But the challenge of this particular
crossword clue
lies in narrowing down these broad options to what is specifically referenced or represented within the world of Wingspan. This is where the game’s mechanics and thematic elements become vital to solving the puzzle.
In Wingspan, birds are played into different habitats: Forest, Grassland, and Wetland. These aren’t typically called “homes” in the game rules; they are environments where birds live and activate powers. However, many birds have specific “nest types” printed on their cards. This detail is crucial because it directly addresses the “animal home” aspect. These nest types are not just flavour text; they often impact scoring at the end of the game, especially in conjunction with bonus cards.
So, what are these specific nest types that appear on the bird cards in Wingspan? We see various icons representing different kinds of avian architecture. Some birds build cup nests, others are cavity nesters, some prefer platform nests, and others are ground nesters. Then there are those birds that don’t build traditional nests at all but might simply lay eggs in a shallow scrape. The terminology used in the game’s iconography and accompanying text is incredibly precise, reflecting real-world ornithology. This means that to conquer this specific
crossword clue
, you’re not just looking for
any
bird home, but one that is a recognized nest type within the game’s framework.
A tricky
crossword clue
like this tests more than just vocabulary; it tests your ability to parse specific contextual information. It asks you to think about how a general concept (“animal home”) is specialized by a particular setting (“in the board game Wingspan”). It’s a delightful example of how crosswords can draw from every corner of our knowledge, from the mundane to the surprisingly niche. The satisfaction of cracking such a specific puzzle, blending real-world knowledge with gaming lore, is immense. It’s a testament to the intricate design of crosswords and the rich tapestry of information they draw upon, proving that a truly well-crafted
crossword clue
can come from anywhere.
Available Answers:
NEST.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Universal Crossword – Themeless Sunday 151 By Chandi Deitmer