How do I unlock the Legendary Animal missions?

Unlocking Legendary Animal missions in Red Dead Online requires players to progress through the Naturalist role, introduced in the July 2020 update. To begin, you must first purchase the Naturalist role from Harriet Davenport, who can be found at her tent in Strawberry or at her other locations across the map. The Naturalist role costs 25 Gold Bars, so ensure you have enough saved up or complete daily challenges to earn Gold Bars faster.\n\nOnce you’ve unlocked the Naturalist role, you’ll need to reach Rank 5 to gain access to Legendary Animal missions. To rank up, focus on completing tasks such as sedating animals, collecting samples, and selling them to Harriet. You can also complete her missions, which involve tracking and sedating animals without killing them. These activities will earn you Naturalist XP and help you progress toward Rank 5.\n\nAt Rank 5, Harriet will begin offering Legendary Animal missions. These missions are time-limited and involve tracking, sedating, or killing a specific Legendary Animal. Each mission is unique and takes place in a specific region of the map. For example, you might be tasked with finding the Legendary Rutile Horn Ram in the Heartlands or the Legendary Onyx Wolf in the Grizzlies. These missions are repeatable, but there is a cooldown period between attempts.\n\nTo successfully complete a Legendary Animal mission, you’ll need to use the right tools and strategies. Equip your Varmint Rifle or Sedative Ammo to sedate the animal without killing it. Alternatively, if you’re hunting for pelts or materials, use high-damage weapons like the Bolt-Action Rifle or Bow with Improved Arrows. Always bring plenty of health tonics and stamina-replenishing items, as Legendary Animals are more aggressive and durable than regular wildlife.\n\nOne common challenge players face is locating the Legendary Animal within the mission area. Use your Eagle Eye ability to track clues such as footprints, fur, or droppings. Follow the trail carefully, as the animal may move to a new location if it detects you. If you lose the trail, search the area systematically, paying attention to auditory cues like growls or rustling bushes.\n\nAfter completing a Legendary Animal mission, you can sell the samples or pelts to Harriet or Gus Macmillan, respectively. Selling to Harriet will increase your Naturalist rank and unlock additional rewards, while selling to Gus allows you to craft unique clothing items. Keep in mind that killing too many animals during missions will anger Harriet, temporarily locking you out of her services. To avoid this, balance your approach between sedating and hunting.\n\nFor new players, focus on building your Gold Bar reserves and completing daily challenges to unlock the Naturalist role quickly. Experienced players should prioritize upgrading their weapons and stocking up on supplies to handle the tougher Legendary Animals. Always check the map for Harriet’s location, as she moves between several camps, including Strawberry, Lagras, and MacFarlane’s Ranch.\n\nIn summary, unlocking Legendary Animal missions requires investing in the Naturalist role, reaching Rank 5, and completing Harriet’s tasks. Use the right tools, track carefully, and balance your approach to maximize rewards. With patience and preparation, you’ll master these missions and enjoy the unique challenges they offer.