What’s the best way to hunt in the desert regions of New Austin?

Hunting in the desert regions of New Austin in Red Dead Redemption 2 requires a mix of strategy, patience, and the right tools. The arid environment is home to unique animals like Gila Monsters, Desert Iguanas, and Pronghorns, as well as larger predators like Cougars. To maximize your success, you’ll need to understand the game mechanics, use the correct weapons, and know where to look.\n\nFirst, equip yourself with the right weapons. For small animals like Gila Monsters and Iguanas, a Varmint Rifle is ideal as it preserves the pelt quality. For larger animals like Pronghorns or Cougars, a Bolt Action Rifle or a Bow with Improved Arrows is recommended. Always aim for headshots to ensure a clean kill and maintain the pelt’s quality. Poor-quality pelts are worth less and can’t be used for crafting high-tier items.\n\nNext, scout the area using Eagle Eye. This ability highlights animal tracks, scents, and nearby creatures, making it easier to locate your targets. In the desert, animals are often sparse, so Eagle Eye is crucial for tracking them down. Focus on areas near water sources like the San Luis River or the Rio Bravo, as animals frequently gather there to drink. For example, Pronghorns are commonly found near the riverbanks, while Gila Monsters and Iguanas prefer rocky outcrops.\n\nOne of the best hunting spots in New Austin is Gaptooth Ridge. This area is rich in wildlife, including Cougars, which are valuable for their pelts. However, Cougars are aggressive and can attack if you get too close. To avoid this, stay on horseback and keep your distance while aiming for a clean shot. If you’re on foot, use cover like rocks or trees to stay hidden and avoid detection.\n\nAnother challenge in the desert is the lack of cover, which makes it harder to approach animals without being noticed. To overcome this, crouch and move slowly while using the terrain to your advantage. For example, use the natural dips and rises in the landscape to stay out of sight. Additionally, consider using scent cover like Cover Scent Lotions to mask your presence. This is especially useful when hunting skittish animals like Pronghorns.\n\nWeather and time of day also play a role in hunting success. Many animals are more active during dawn and dusk, so plan your hunts accordingly. For example, Cougars are more likely to appear at night, while Pronghorns are easier to find during the day. Pay attention to the weather, as rain can make tracking harder by washing away animal trails.\n\nFinally, always be prepared for unexpected encounters. The desert is home to hostile NPCs and predators, so keep your weapons ready. If you’re hunting near Thieves’ Landing or Armadillo, watch out for bandits who may attack you. Similarly, always have a health tonic or revolver on hand in case a Cougar or Snake ambushes you.\n\nIn summary, hunting in New Austin’s desert regions requires careful planning and execution. Use the right weapons, scout with Eagle Eye, and focus on high-traffic areas like Gaptooth Ridge and riverbanks. Stay stealthy, use cover scents, and hunt during optimal times for the best results. With these tips, you’ll be able to gather valuable pelts and materials for crafting in no time.