Crossword Genius

Thanks on capturing weirdly natural, scary creature (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

tarantula

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'scary creature' is the definition.
'tarantula' can be an answer for 'creature' (tarantula is a kind of creature). I am not sure about the 'scary' bit.

'thanks on capturing weirdly natural' is the wordplay.
'thanks on' becomes 'ta' (UK informal version of 'thank you'. I am not sure about the 'on' bit.).
'capturing' is an insertion indicator.
'weirdly' is an anagram indicator.
'natural' with letters rearranged gives 'arantul'.
'ta' placed around 'arantul' is 'TARANTULA'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for tarantula that I've seen before include "hairy creature" , "A big hairy spider" , "small, venomous creature" , "Large venomous spider" , "Leggy creature" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.