Tropical American bird (6) Crossword Clue
Answer:MOTMOT (6 letters)
The answer to the crossword clue "Tropical American bird" with 6 letters is "MOTMOT". A motmot is a colorful tropical bird found in Central and South America, recognized for its vibrant plumage and long, racket-shaped tail feathers. These birds are often seen in forests and are known for their distinctive calls and acrobatic flight.
Why “Motmot” Fits
The clue asks for a 6-letter word naming a “tropical American bird.” The answer, MOTMOT, fits perfectly:
- A motmot is a striking, medium-sized bird native to the tropical forests of Central and South America.Bird type:
- Defining features: Motmots are known for their vibrant, often green or blue plumage and distinctive racket-shaped tails, which set them apart from other birds.
This direct definition matches both the region and the specific features described in the clue.
The motmot has become iconic in its native habitat:
- Habitat: Motmots frequent rainforests and wooded areas throughout Mexico, Central America, and as far south as Argentina.
- Species: There are several species of motmot, including the blue-crowned motmot and the turquoise-browed motmot.
- Behavior: Motmots often perch quietly, making their vibrant colors stand out amid lush greenery; their tails sometimes appear to have “racquets” due to the loss of barbs near the tips.
- Association: The turquoise-browed motmot is the national bird of both El Salvador and Nicaragua.
Motmot naturally bridges the clue’s requirements of being a tropical bird found in the Americas and being distinctive enough to stand out.
In quick crosswords, clues like “tropical American bird”:
- Often call for knowledge beyond typical garden birds—expect terms from zoology or regional wildlife guides (“motmot,” “toucan,” “macaw”).
- Six letters pinpoints “motmot,” not other tropical birds with either longer or shorter names.
- Look out for clues about habitat (“tropical,” “American”) and appearance (“colorful,” “distinctive tail”) to guide guesses.
Spotting the species and region in the clue is key for identifying where “motmot” fits.