Sizzling Squirrels: Decoding a Crossword Clue & the Curious Case of the “Sploot”
The crossword puzzle. A daily ritual for some, an occasional brain-teaser for others, and a constant companion for, well, people like me. Today’s grid throws a furry curveball our way with the clue: “When squirrels may thermoregulate by splooting.” Intriguing, isn’t it? It immediately conjures images of squirrels, perhaps not as we typically envision them, bushy-tailed and darting through trees, but in a rather more… relaxed posture.
But what exactly
is
splooting? And why does it have anything to do with thermoregulation, a term that sounds suspiciously scientific?
Let’s unravel this puzzle, starting with the quirky verb “to sploot.” In its simplest form, splooting is the act of lying flat on one’s stomach with legs splayed out behind. Think of a rug being stretched out, and you’re getting close. While it might appear comical, it’s a surprisingly effective strategy for a variety of animals, including our aforementioned squirrels.
Now, let’s connect that delightful image with “thermoregulation.” This is the process by which an organism maintains its internal body temperature, regardless of external conditions. It’s a delicate balancing act vital for survival. We humans, for instance, shiver when cold and sweat when hot. Animals, including squirrels, have their own unique strategies.
The key to understanding the crossword clue lies in recognizing the conditions under which splooting becomes a thermoregulatory behavior for squirrels. Consider the scenario: scorching summer days, baking pavements, and a desperate need to cool down. Squirrels, unlike humans, can’t simply peel off layers of clothing or grab a popsicle. Their thick fur, while essential for warmth in colder months, can become a liability in the heat.
This is where splooting enters the scene. When a squirrel sploots on a cool surface, like a shaded patch of grass, a cool rock, or even a concrete step, they maximize the surface area of their bodies in contact with that surface. This allows them to effectively dissipate heat through conduction. The belly, in particular, has less fur cover, making it an ideal area for heat transfer.
Essentially, splooting acts as a biological air conditioner. By pressing their warm bellies against a cooler surface, squirrels are essentially drawing heat out of their bodies and into the environment. It’s a simple yet brilliant adaptation that helps them survive the sweltering heat.
So, armed with this knowledge, let’s revisit our crossword clue: “When squirrels may thermoregulate by splooting.” Consider the timeframe associated with needing to regulate one’s temperature in response to
heat
, and you’ll be one step closer to fitting that answer into the grid. The answer describes a particular time when we may see this behavior. It’s a seasonal phenomenon. Happy puzzling!
Available Answers:
HEAT WAVE.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: 0725-25 NY Times Crossword 25 Jul 25, Friday