How do you hunt animals in the mountains without losing them?

Hunting animals in the mountains of Red Dead Redemption 2 can be challenging due to the rugged terrain and the tendency for prey to flee quickly. To hunt effectively without losing animals, you need to understand the game mechanics, use the right tools, and employ strategic approaches. Here’s a detailed guide to help you succeed.\n\nFirst, equip yourself with the right weapons and items. For hunting in the mountains, a rifle like the Springfield Rifle or Bolt Action Rifle is ideal for larger animals such as deer, elk, and bighorn sheep. For smaller animals like rabbits or foxes, a Varmint Rifle or Bow with Small Game Arrows works best. Always carry Binoculars to scout animals from a distance without spooking them. Additionally, stock up on Cover Scent Lotions to mask your scent, which is especially useful when hunting skittish animals.\n\nNext, approach the mountains strategically. The Grizzlies, Ambarino, and the northern regions of the map are prime hunting spots. Animals like bighorn sheep, wolves, and cougars are commonly found here. Use your map to identify areas with high animal activity, such as near water sources or open clearings. For example, the area around Lake Isabella is a great spot for hunting bighorn sheep. Always approach slowly and crouch to minimize noise and visibility.\n\nTracking animals is a crucial skill. When you spot an animal, use Eagle Eye (R3/Right Stick) to highlight its tracks and follow its trail. Pay attention to the color of the tracks: fresh tracks are bright, while older ones fade. If you lose sight of the animal, use Eagle Eye to re-establish the trail. Be patient and avoid running, as this will scare the animal away. If the animal flees, don’t chase it immediately; instead, wait for it to calm down and return to its original location.\n\nTo ensure a clean kill, aim for the head or heart. A clean kill preserves the quality of the pelt, which is essential for crafting and selling. Use Dead Eye (R3/Right Stick) to slow time and line up your shot perfectly. For example, when hunting a bighorn sheep, aim for the head to secure a three-star pelt. If you miss or hit a non-vital area, the animal may flee, and the pelt quality will degrade.\n\nCommon challenges include losing animals in dense forests or steep terrain. To avoid this, always keep an eye on the animal’s direction and use your map to anticipate its path. If you lose track, climb to a higher vantage point to regain visibility. For example, if you’re hunting in the Grizzlies, climb a nearby rock or hill to spot the animal from above. Additionally, use your horse to cover ground quickly, but dismount before taking the shot to avoid spooking the animal.\n\nFinally, consider the weather and time of day. Some animals are more active during specific times, such as dawn or dusk. For example, wolves are more likely to appear at night, while deer are active during the day. Adjust your hunting schedule accordingly. Also, be prepared for predators like cougars or bears, which can attack unexpectedly. Always carry a powerful weapon like a shotgun or rifle for self-defense.\n\nIn summary, hunting in the mountains requires preparation, patience, and precision. Equip the right weapons, use Cover Scent Lotions, and approach animals carefully. Track them using Eagle Eye, aim for clean kills, and adapt to the terrain and weather. By following these steps, you can hunt effectively without losing animals and maximize your rewards.