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NYT Daily • September 3, 2025
Stinging insects
Answer:
RED ANTS
Hint:
These tiny aggressors build large mounds in soil and deliver a painful bite when disturbed, often found in warmer climates. Their name hints at their color.
Explanation:
Stinging insects" points to creatures known for delivering painful bites or stings, and "red ants" fit perfectly—they’re a common type of ant with a sharp sting. The color "red" isn’t just descriptive; it helps narrow it down from generic ants, since many species don’t sting or aren’t red. Some solvers might first think of bees or wasps, but the answer plays on the specificity of ants that are both red and known for stinging. It’s a straightforward clue where the answer matches the description directly.