What’s the best way to avoid cougars while exploring?

Avoiding cougars in Red Dead Redemption 2 requires a combination of awareness, preparation, and quick reflexes. Cougars are one of the most dangerous predators in the game, often found in dense forests and remote areas like Roanoke Ridge, Big Valley, and the area west of Blackwater. They are stealthy, fast, and can kill Arthur Morgan in just a few attacks if you''re not careful. Understanding their behavior and the game mechanics is key to survival.\n\nFirst, always stay alert when exploring cougar-prone areas. Cougars are ambush predators, meaning they often attack from behind or the sides. Use your mini-map to your advantage; a red dot will appear when a cougar is nearby. If you see a red dot approaching rapidly, it’s likely a cougar. Equip your weapon immediately and prepare to defend yourself. A rifle or a shotgun with high damage output is ideal for taking down cougars quickly.\n\nSecond, use your horse as an early warning system. Horses in RDR2 will often react to nearby predators by whinnying, bucking, or becoming agitated. If your horse starts acting nervous, slow down and scan your surroundings. Dismounting can give you better control over your aim, but be cautious—cougars can attack both you and your horse. If you’re on foot, try to position yourself on higher ground or near a rock to limit the cougar’s attack angles.\n\nThird, consider using bait to control the situation. Predator bait can be crafted or purchased and is useful for luring cougars into a specific area. Place the bait in an open space where you have a clear line of sight, then retreat to a safe distance. This allows you to take a shot before the cougar can close the distance. However, be prepared for the cougar to charge if it detects you before taking the bait.\n\nFourth, always carry health tonics and potent medicine. Cougar attacks can drain your health quickly, and having these items on hand can mean the difference between life and death. If you’re caught off guard, use Dead Eye to slow time and land precise shots on the cougar’s head for an instant kill. Dead Eye is especially useful for new players who may struggle with aiming under pressure.\n\nFinally, learn the cougar’s spawn locations and avoid them if you’re not prepared. For example, the area west of Blackwater near the Upper Montana River is a known cougar hotspot. If you’re hunting or exploring in these areas, travel during the day when visibility is better. At night, cougars are harder to spot, and their attacks are more frequent. Always save your game before entering these regions to avoid losing progress.\n\nIn summary, avoiding cougars in RDR2 requires vigilance, preparation, and quick thinking. Stay alert, use your horse as an early warning system, carry the right weapons and items, and learn the cougar’s behavior and spawn locations. By following these steps, you can minimize the risk of encountering these deadly predators and enjoy your exploration of the game’s vast world.