Crossword Genius

Bird catcher's practical joke (5,4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

booby trap

'practical joke' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

'bird catcher's' is the wordplay.
'bird' becomes 'booby' (booby is a kind of bird).
'catcher' becomes 'trap' (I've seen this in another clue).
'booby'+'trap'='BOOBY-TRAP'

(Other definitions for booby trap that I've seen before include "mine?" , "Lethal or playful device set off by victim" , "Device for practical joke" , "Bra, maybe" , "Hidden weapon" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.
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.