Crossword Genius

Parrot in Andes initially taking exercise (3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

ape

'parrot' is the definition.
(both can mean to imitate)

'andes initially taking exercise' is the wordplay.
'initially' says to take the initial letters.
'taking' is a charade indicator (letters next to each other).
'exercise' becomes 'pe' (Physical Education).
The first letter of 'andes' is 'a'.
'a'+'pe'='APE'

'in' acts as a link.

(Other definitions for ape that I've seen before include "Our cousin" , "Copy - primate" , "Simulate" , "Imitate uncritically" , "drill" .)

I've seen this clue in The Telegraph.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app