If you’ve arrived here, it’s likely that you’re seeking some help with **[Strands](https://www.nytimes.com/games/strands)**, *The New York Times’* innovative word-search experience. Let’s jump in and assist you in mastering it!

### What is Strands?

Strands adds a creative flair to the classic word search format. Rather than just locating words in straight lines, you can connect letters in any direction — up, down, sideways, or diagonally. Words can even shift direction midway, creating distinctive shapes and patterns. The twist? Every letter in the grid contributes to a solution.

Each puzzle is based on a central theme, featuring a “spangram” — a unique word or phrase that reflects the day’s theme and covers the entire grid either horizontally or vertically.

—

### What Sets Strands Apart?

In contrast to other *NYT* games like **[Wordle](https://mashable.com/category/wordle)** or **[Connections](https://mashable.com/category/connections)**, Strands doesn’t offer a word list. Instead, it presents a single, enigmatic clue, turning it into a more time-demanding mental challenge. If you find yourself stuck or pressed for time, don’t fret — we’ve got all the hints and solutions for today’s Strands puzzle at your disposal.

—

### Today’s Strands Theme: Hunt and Peck

**Hint:** The words in today’s puzzle feature large game birds.

**Theme Explained:** The solutions are birds of prey that hunt and scavenge for their meals.

—

### Spangram Hint: Horizontal or Vertical?

Today’s spangram is **vertical**.

**Spangram Answer:** The spangram for today is **Raptors**.

—

### Word List for February 1

Here’s the full compilation of words for today’s Strands puzzle:

– **Vulture**
– **Eagle**
– **Hawk**
– **Falcon**
– **Condor**
– **Kestrel**
– **Osprey**
– **Raptors**

—

### Looking for More Games?

If you’re on the hunt for additional puzzles and games, visit **[Mashable’s Games Hub](https://games.mashable.com/)** for options like Mahjong, Sudoku, free crosswords, and more. You can also check out hints and solutions for other daily games like **[Wordle](https://mashable.com/article/wordle-today-answer-february-1-2025)** or **[Connections](https://mashable.com/article/nyt-connections-hint-answer-today-February-1-2025)**.

—

### Missed Yesterday’s Puzzle?

No problem! You can discover the solution to January 31’s Strands puzzle **[here](https://mashable.com/article/strands-nyt-hint-january-31-2025)**.

—

Ready to take on today’s puzzle? Happy searching, and may the words always be in your favor!