Alright, fellow word enthusiasts and puzzle masters! Today, we’re diving deep into the heart of Africa, navigating treacherous waters and grappling with a classic
crossword clue
that often leaves solvers scratching their heads, or perhaps, smiling smugly. The
crossword clue
we’re dissecting is “Large African water mammal (5)“. Ah, a truly grand animal, and one that consistently makes for a fascinating and frequently appearing
crossword clue
in puzzles worldwide.
It’s one of those clues that feels deceptively simple, isn’t it? Five letters, a clear descriptor. But the beauty of a well-crafted
crossword clue
lies in its ability to be precise yet elusive. This particular clue immediately conjures images of the vast African landscape, specifically its life-giving rivers and sprawling lakes. When you encounter “Large African water mammal (5)” in your daily crossword puzzle, your mind likely jumps to a few contenders. This is where your knowledge of geography, zoology, and of course, your trusty crossword solver instincts come into play.
The magnificent creature hinted at by this common
crossword clue
is truly iconic. It’s an enormous, semi-aquatic beast, renowned for its immense bulk and its peculiar preference for spending most of its day submerged, often with just its eyes, ears, and nostrils peeking above the surface like periscopes. Think of its immense, barrel-shaped body, supported by surprisingly short, sturdy legs. Its skin is thick, practically hairless, and a grayish-brown hue, perfectly adapted for its amphibious lifestyle. This mammal, unique to the African continent, represents raw power and an almost ancient presence in its aquatic domain.
Despite its intimidating appearance and formidable jaws, its diet is entirely plant-based, making it a herbivore. At night, it ventures onto land to graze on grasses, returning to the water as the sun rises to escape the intense heat and support its immense weight. The sheer size of this animal is hard to overstate; it ranks among the largest land mammals, spending its life straddling both worlds with unparalleled grace in the water and surprising speed on land. This duality makes it a prime subject for a well-rounded
crossword clue
.
This particular
crossword clue
isn’t just about identifying an animal; it’s about understanding the specific context provided. The “African” part narrows it down significantly, immediately directing your thoughts to the continent’s unique fauna. The “water mammal” aspect directs you away from purely terrestrial giants like elephants or rhinos, even though they share the ‘large’ and ‘African’ criteria. And “large” seals the deal, pushing aside smaller, less imposing aquatic creatures. This combination makes it a perfect example of a clue that gives you just enough information without giving everything away, typical of a brilliantly designed
crossword clue
.
What makes this such a frequent and beloved
crossword clue
? Perhaps it’s the creature’s distinctive appearance, its unique habits, or simply its sheer, undeniable presence. It’s a creature of fascinating contrasts: seemingly sluggish and placid in the water, yet capable of astonishing speed and aggression on land, especially when threatened. Its famous ‘yawn’ is not a sign of tiredness but a dramatic display of immense power and a territorial warning, showcasing impressive dental work that no
crossword solver
would soon forget.
When you’re trying to solve this particular
crossword clue
, consider the number of letters provided: five. That’s a crucial piece of the puzzle, a silent hint that helps eliminate many other large African mammals that might initially come to mind, whether they primarily live in water or not. This is why paying attention to the letter count is paramount when tackling any
crossword clue
and a skill every avid solver cultivates.
So, next time you come across “Large African water mammal (5)” in your daily
crossword puzzle
, take a moment to appreciate the subject itself. It’s a marvel of nature, a creature of incredible adaptation, and a testament to the diverse wildlife of Africa. And it’s also a brilliantly constructed
crossword clue
that offers just the right amount of challenge for solvers of all levels. Understanding the characteristics of the animal, even without knowing its name, is key to cracking many similar
crossword clues
. Keep practicing, keep observing, and keep that crossword solver’s mind sharp!
Available Answers:
HIPPO.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: –Metro Quick Crossword Clues Wednesday, 12 November 2025
–Metro Quick Crossword Clues Thursday, 14 August 2025
Metro Quick Crossword Clues Tuesday, 10 June 2025