Crossclimb #712 Answer – April 12, 2026
RIVEROTTER
Answer
RIVEROTTER
Combo Clue
“A two-word phrase for a semiaquatic mammal”
📖 How I Solved It
So, I dove into puzzle #712, and right away, I saw the clue for RIVEROTTER. I thought, 'Great, semiaquatic mammal, I've got this!' But when I started the word ladder, I got tripped up on RIDER. I kept thinking about motorcyclists and horses, so I wasted a few minutes trying to fit something else in there. I didn't realize I had to keep it simple! Once I finally got it, the rest fell into place pretty fast. I had a moment of confusion with CIDER too, because I was stuck on beverages and couldn't believe how far off I was with my first guesses. Once I saw CITER and CUTER, I knew I was close. It all clicked, and I finally landed on OTTER, which felt like a victory. I love how these puzzles twist your thinking!
💡 Tips for This Puzzle
- •Focus on the clues that connect the words in the ladder before jumping to conclusions.
- •Don't overlook the simpler definitions; sometimes they lead you to the answer faster.
- •If you're stuck, take a break and come back with fresh eyes.