How do you use cover scent lotion to avoid scaring animals?

Cover Scent Lotion is a valuable tool in Red Dead Redemption 2 for hunters looking to get closer to animals without being detected. This item masks your scent, making it harder for animals to smell you, which is especially useful when hunting skittish or high-value prey like deer, elk, or predators. To use it effectively, you need to understand the game mechanics and follow specific steps.\n\nFirst, you must acquire Cover Scent Lotion. It can be purchased from general stores, fences, or the Trapper for around $5. Alternatively, you can craft it using animal fat and common herbs like creeping thyme or oregano. Once you have the lotion, equip it from your satchel by opening the item wheel, navigating to the Kit section, and selecting it. Apply it by pressing the corresponding button (e.g., Square on PlayStation or X on Xbox). A notification will confirm that your scent is now masked.\n\nWhen using Cover Scent Lotion, timing and positioning are crucial. Animals in RDR2 have a keen sense of smell, and wind direction plays a significant role in whether they detect you. Before approaching your target, check the wind direction by holding down the left bumper (L1 on PlayStation or LB on Xbox) to activate Eagle Eye. The wind direction is indicated by swirling particles. Always approach animals from downwind to ensure your scent doesn’t carry toward them.\n\nFor example, if you’re hunting a three-star buck in Big Valley, position yourself so the wind is blowing toward you, not the animal. This ensures the buck won’t catch your scent even if you’re relatively close. Combine Cover Scent Lotion with crouching and slow movement to maximize stealth. Avoid running or making sudden movements, as this can still alert animals visually or through sound.\n\nOne common challenge is hunting predators like cougars or wolves, which are highly sensitive to human presence. In these cases, Cover Scent Lotion is essential. For instance, when hunting a cougar in Roanoke Ridge, apply the lotion before entering the area. Use a high-powered rifle or bow with improved arrows to ensure a clean kill. Stay alert and ready to defend yourself, as predators can attack if they detect you.\n\nAnother practical tip is to use Cover Scent Lotion in conjunction with bait or calls. For example, when hunting deer, place herbivore bait in a clearing and apply the lotion before waiting nearby. This combination increases your chances of attracting animals while remaining undetected. Similarly, use predator bait and Cover Scent Lotion when hunting bears or wolves in areas like Tall Trees or Grizzlies East.\n\nFinally, remember that Cover Scent Lotion has a limited duration. It lasts for about 5 in-game hours, so reapply it as needed during long hunting sessions. Keep an eye on your minimap for animal icons; if they turn red or flee, it’s a sign your scent has been detected. In such cases, retreat, reapply the lotion, and try again from a different angle.\n\nIn summary, Cover Scent Lotion is a powerful tool for hunters in RDR2. Use it strategically by checking wind direction, moving stealthily, and combining it with bait or calls. Whether you’re hunting in the forests of Big Valley or the snowy peaks of Ambarino, this item can make the difference between a successful hunt and a missed opportunity.