Early bird's prize (4)

I believe the answer is:

worm

'early bird's prize' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

This is all the clue.

(Other definitions for worm that I've seen before include "Pink, slimy subterranean wriggler" , "Slither" , "Cylindrical gear; burrowing invertebrate" , "Squirm" , "Annelid" .)

I've seen this clue in The New York Times.

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