What’s the best way to hunt birds for perfect carcasses?

Hunting birds for perfect carcasses in Red Dead Redemption 2 requires a combination of the right tools, knowledge of bird behavior, and precise execution. Birds are small and fast, making them challenging targets, but with the right approach, you can consistently obtain perfect pelts and carcasses. Here’s a detailed guide to help you master bird hunting.\n\nFirst, you need the right weapon. Birds require small game arrows to ensure a clean kill without damaging the carcass. These arrows can be crafted by combining regular arrows with flight feathers, which are obtained by plucking birds like ducks or geese. Alternatively, you can purchase small game arrows from a fence if you prefer not to craft them. Using a varmint rifle or other weapons will often ruin the carcass, so stick to small game arrows for the best results.\n\nNext, you need to identify the right birds. Not all birds yield perfect carcasses, so focus on species like ducks, geese, pheasants, and herons. These birds are commonly found near water sources such as rivers, lakes, and swamps. For example, the Dakota River and the Kamassa River are excellent locations for hunting ducks and geese. Use your binoculars or Eagle Eye ability to scan the area and spot birds from a distance. This will help you plan your approach without startling them.\n\nOnce you’ve located a bird, crouch and move slowly to avoid spooking it. Birds are highly sensitive to movement and noise, so stealth is crucial. If you’re hunting from a distance, use Dead Eye to mark the bird and ensure a precise shot. Aim for the head or neck to guarantee a clean kill. If the bird is flying, lead your shot slightly to account for its movement. Missing or hitting the body will often result in a poor-quality carcass.\n\nAfter successfully hunting a bird, immediately skin or pluck it to collect the feathers and carcass. Perfect carcasses can be sold to trappers or used for crafting at the camp. If you’re hunting for specific materials, such as heron plumes for crafting, prioritize those birds. Keep in mind that some birds, like eagles and owls, are protected by law, so avoid hunting them in populated areas to prevent unwanted attention from lawmen.\n\nOne common challenge is finding birds in large numbers. To address this, visit areas with high bird activity, such as the swamps near Saint Denis or the shores of Flat Iron Lake. These locations often have flocks of birds, making it easier to hunt multiple targets in one trip. Additionally, using bait like herbivore bait can attract birds to a specific area, giving you more opportunities to hunt.\n\nFinally, always check the quality of the bird before shooting. Use your binoculars to study the bird and ensure it’s a three-star specimen. Lower-quality birds will not yield perfect carcasses, so it’s better to wait for the right target. If you accidentally kill a lower-quality bird, don’t waste the carcass—use it for cooking or sell it to a general store.\n\nIn summary, hunting birds for perfect carcasses in Red Dead Redemption 2 requires the right tools, stealth, and precision. Use small game arrows, scout high-activity areas, and aim carefully to maximize your success. With practice, you’ll be able to consistently obtain perfect carcasses for crafting, selling, or camp upgrades.