49 Down

NYT Daily • September 1, 2025

“Bald” birds

Answer:

EAGLES

Hint:

These majestic raptors are often associated with freedom and have a distinctive white head in adulthood. Their name might also remind you of a famous sports team.

Explanation:

The clue plays on the double meaning of "bald." While it literally means hairless, it’s also the name of the Bald Eagle, the iconic bird of prey and national symbol of the U.S. The quotation marks hint that "bald" isn’t about feathers but the bird’s actual name. So, the answer is EAGLES, since Bald Eagles are the most famous "bald" birds.

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