What’s the best strategy for hunting small animals?

Hunting small animals in Red Dead Redemption 2 requires precision, patience, and the right tools. Small animals like rabbits, squirrels, raccoons, and birds are abundant throughout the game world, but they are also quick and easily spooked. To hunt them effectively, you need to understand the game mechanics, such as the importance of weapon choice, stealth, and tracking.\n\nFirst, always use the appropriate weapon for small game. The Varmint Rifle is the best choice for most small animals, as it is designed to kill them cleanly without damaging the pelt. For very small animals like squirrels or chipmunks, the Small Game Arrow is essential. These arrows are crafted by combining regular arrows with flight feathers and can be unlocked through the crafting menu. Using the wrong weapon, such as a shotgun or repeater, will ruin the pelt and reduce its value.\n\nNext, stealth is crucial when hunting small animals. Approach your target slowly, crouching to reduce noise and visibility. Use Eagle Eye (activated by pressing both thumbsticks) to track the animal’s scent trail and predict its movements. If the animal detects you, it will flee, so maintain a safe distance and avoid sudden movements. For birds, such as ducks or pheasants, you can also use a bow with Small Game Arrows or the Varmint Rifle, but aim carefully to avoid missing.\n\nTracking is another key mechanic. After spotting an animal, study it with your binoculars or by aiming your weapon. This will reveal its quality (poor, good, or perfect) and help you decide whether it’s worth pursuing. Perfect pelts are required for crafting high-quality items at the Trapper, so focus on three-star animals. If you’re struggling to find high-quality small game, consider visiting areas like Big Valley, Cumberland Forest, or the Heartlands, where small animals are plentiful.\n\nOne common challenge is dealing with animals that are too fast or too small to hit. For example, squirrels and chipmunks are tiny and move erratically. To improve your accuracy, use Dead Eye (activated by pressing R3) to slow time and mark your target. This is especially useful for birds in flight or animals that dart across open ground. Additionally, consider using bait, such as herbivore bait for rabbits or omnivore bait for raccoons, to lure them into a specific area.\n\nFinally, always carry the right tools and supplies. Stock up on Small Game Arrows, Varmint Rifle ammo, and bait before heading out. If you’re hunting in a remote area, bring a horse with good stamina and a saddlebag to store pelts. Remember that pelts and carcasses will degrade over time, so prioritize selling or storing them at camp or the Trapper as soon as possible.\n\nIn summary, the best strategy for hunting small animals in Red Dead Redemption 2 involves using the right weapons, practicing stealth, and mastering tracking mechanics. Focus on high-quality targets, use Dead Eye for precision, and visit areas with abundant small game. With patience and practice, you’ll be able to collect perfect pelts and craft valuable items in no time.