Speccie # 2465

[Matakari]

Thanks to your precious help, I'm now at the end of this not so "amusing" Fieldfare offering! The theme remains elusive for me, though I have all of the unclueds except 9 and 40. It's difficult to see what most of these words have in common. What's the secret? For the Unclued N0 9, must we be thinking snakes? And for 40, should we revert to ancient times or seek the help of clairvoyants or soothsayers? Some hints would be appreciated with thanks!

[truron]

I echo your thoughts but am also puzzled by the connections. 18d I have? U ?le?. Apologies for following your question with another.

[teacher1]

I have 7 answers out of the 10, but still do not know what I am looking for in the remainder ! ;o(

[professorplum13]

if you have Brewer you need to look under Chambersisms...

[shaneystar2]

They are Chamberisms definitions found in Chambers dictionary and Brewers
Mullet
Middle aged
Sea serpent
Duvet day
Panic room
Eclair
Pollyanna
He Man
Rosbif
Pict

[Matakari]

Thank you immensely, Shaneystar2! Brewer is really the key to it all!

[teacher1]

...... forgot to mention I don't have Brewers ....... thank you shaneystar2. ;o)

[johnpiper]

Last one in for me. Help much appreciated.
Rush along, colt and wet riding colt (5)
S?ou?
Stumped!!

[Neveracrossword]

Scour, sour, cold and wet, with C, colt inside.