How do I find and sell rare dinosaur bones in RDR2?

Finding and selling rare dinosaur bones in Red Dead Redemption 2 is a rewarding activity that combines exploration, puzzle-solving, and a lucrative payout. These bones are part of the ''A Test of Faith'' side mission, which becomes available early in Chapter 2. To start, you must encounter Deborah MacGuiness, a paleontologist, near the train tracks north of Flatneck Station. She will ask you to help her collect 30 dinosaur bone fragments scattered across the map.\n\nTo locate the bones, you need to use the in-game map and clues provided by Deborah. Each bone is marked with a small white icon on the map once you get close enough. However, finding them requires careful exploration, as they are often hidden in remote or hard-to-reach areas. Some bones are buried in the ground, while others are perched on cliffs or tucked away in caves. Using Eagle Eye (activated by pressing both thumbsticks) can help you spot the glowing yellow fragments more easily.\n\nOne of the first bones you can find is located near Window Rock, just north of Valentine. This is a good starting point for beginners. Another early find is near the Dakota River, close to the Limpany ruins. As you progress, you''ll need to venture into more challenging areas, such as the Grizzlies or the swamps of Lemoyne. Each bone you collect is automatically added to your inventory, so there''s no need to carry them physically.\n\nOnce you''ve collected a significant number of bones, you can return to Deborah to sell them. She pays $30 for each bone, making this a highly profitable endeavor. However, you don''t need to collect all 30 bones to start earning money. You can sell them in batches, which is useful if you need quick cash for upgrades or supplies. Keep in mind that Deborah moves locations after your first encounter, so you''ll need to track her down near Strawberry or other towns as the story progresses.\n\nA common challenge players face is locating bones in areas with difficult terrain or hostile wildlife. For example, bones in the Grizzlies may require climbing steep slopes, while those in the Bayou Nwa region are often guarded by alligators. To overcome these obstacles, always carry a good supply of health tonics and weapons like the Varmint Rifle for dealing with predators. Additionally, using a horse with high stamina and bonding level can make traversing rough terrain easier.\n\nFor experienced players, completing the entire collection unlocks a unique cutscene and a special reward: a dinosaur bone knife. This melee weapon is a rare and valuable addition to your arsenal. However, even if you''re not aiming for 100% completion, selling bones is an excellent way to fund your adventures in the game.\n\nPractical tips for this activity include using online maps or guides to pinpoint bone locations if you''re stuck, as some are incredibly well-hidden. Also, prioritize collecting bones in areas you''re already exploring for story missions or other side quests to save time. Finally, always save your game before venturing into dangerous areas, as losing progress due to an unexpected death can be frustrating.\n\nIn summary, finding and selling dinosaur bones in RDR2 is a fun and profitable side activity that rewards exploration and persistence. By following the clues, using Eagle Eye, and preparing for environmental challenges, you can turn this paleontological pursuit into a steady source of income.