How do I use the Cover Scent Lotion to avoid spooking animals?

Using Cover Scent Lotion in Red Dead Redemption 2 is a crucial tool for hunters who want to avoid spooking animals while tracking or stalking prey. This item masks your scent, making it harder for animals to detect you, especially when approaching from downwind. To use it effectively, you need to understand the game mechanics and apply it strategically during your hunts.\n\nFirst, you must acquire Cover Scent Lotion. It can be purchased from general stores, such as the one in Valentine or Saint Denis, or crafted using specific ingredients. To craft it, you need 1x Creeping Thyme, 1x Common Bulrush, and 1x Alcohol. These ingredients can be found in the wild, with Creeping Thyme commonly growing in grassy areas and Common Bulrush near water sources like rivers and lakes.\n\nOnce you have the lotion, equip it from your satchel. Open the item wheel, navigate to the Kit section, and select Cover Scent Lotion. 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. This effect lasts for a limited time, so reapply as needed during long hunts.\n\nTo maximize its effectiveness, combine Cover Scent Lotion with other stealth techniques. Move slowly and crouch when approaching animals, especially those with heightened senses like deer or predators. Use the environment to your advantage by staying behind trees, rocks, or tall grass. Wind direction is critical—check the minimap for the wind indicator (a white line with small puffs). Always approach animals from downwind to minimize the chance of detection.\n\nFor example, if you''re hunting a three-star buck in Big Valley, apply the lotion before entering the area. Move quietly through the tall grass, crouching and using the terrain to stay hidden. If the wind shifts, reposition yourself to stay downwind. This combination of tactics ensures the animal remains unaware of your presence, allowing you to get closer for a clean shot.\n\nCommon challenges include running out of lotion or forgetting to reapply it. To avoid this, always carry multiple bottles or the ingredients to craft more. Additionally, some players mistakenly rely solely on the lotion without considering other factors like noise or movement. Remember, Cover Scent Lotion only masks your scent—it doesn''t make you invisible. You still need to move carefully and avoid sudden actions that could startle animals.\n\nIn summary, Cover Scent Lotion is a valuable tool for hunters in Red Dead Redemption 2. Use it in combination with stealth tactics, pay attention to wind direction, and reapply as needed. By mastering these techniques, you can significantly improve your hunting success and secure perfect pelts for crafting and trading.