Solution
- Answer: TURKEYS
- Clue: “Gobbling Group”
- Publication: NYT Mini Crossword
- Date(s) of appearance: Likely February 9th and 10th, 2024.
Explanation
Turkeys are widely known for their characteristic “gobble” sound, often made in groups. While other collective nouns for turkeys exist (like “rafter” or “gang”), “group” is a general term that fits the clue. This clue likely appeared around February 9th and 10th, possibly as a nod to recent Thanksgiving festivities.
Why Turkeys Gobble
Turkeys gobble for a variety of reasons:
- Mating: Male turkeys (toms) gobble to attract females, similar to a bird’s song.
- Dominance: Gobbles establish territory and hierarchy among turkeys.
- Alerts: Turkeys may gobble to warn of predators or to locate other turkeys within a flock.
- Communication: Research suggests turkeys may have unique gobbles for individual recognition, though further study is needed.
| Vocalization | Possible Meaning(s) |
|---|---|
| Gobble | Mating, dominance display, location, warning |
| Putt | Soft alarm call |
| Cluck | Contentment, keeping flock together |
| Yelp | Contact call used by young turkeys (poults) |
Crossword Solving Tips
- Synonyms: Consider alternative words with similar meanings to the clue.
- Wordplay: Be mindful of puns, double meanings, and other linguistic tricks.
- Intersections: Use letters from solved intersecting words to narrow possibilities.
- Breaks: If stumped, step away and return with a fresh perspective.
- Resources: Consider a subscription to the NYT Crossword for access to their archive. Some third-party sites may offer information on past clues, but their reliability varies.
Additional Notes
The exact date of the “Gobbling Group” clue in February 2024 is difficult to confirm without access to official NYT archives. While TURKEYS is the most likely answer, crosswords can be ambiguous, and alternative interpretations, though less probable, are possible. This highlights the evolving nature of language and puzzles. Sharing challenging clues with other solvers can be a helpful strategy, fostering a sense of community and potentially revealing new solving approaches. While current information guides these tips, crossword puzzles are dynamic, and new styles and clues continually emerge.
