What does the horse icon on the HUD tell you about your mount?

The horse icon on the HUD in Red Dead Redemption 2 is a critical tool for understanding the status and condition of your mount. Located in the bottom-left corner of the screen, this icon provides real-time information about your horse''s health, stamina, and bonding level. The icon itself is a small horse head, and it is surrounded by two bars: a yellow stamina bar and a red health bar. These bars fluctuate based on your horse''s current state, and understanding them is essential for maintaining your mount''s performance and ensuring its survival during intense gameplay moments.\n\nYour horse''s stamina bar (yellow) indicates how much energy your horse has left for running, galloping, or performing other strenuous activities. When the bar is full, your horse can sprint or gallop for extended periods without tiring. However, as the bar depletes, your horse will slow down and eventually stop if you push it too hard. To replenish stamina, you can either let your horse rest or use items like horse stimulants or specific herbs. For example, feeding your horse wild carrots, which can be found in the Heartlands near Valentine, is an excellent way to boost stamina naturally.\n\nYour horse''s health bar (red) represents its overall well-being. If this bar depletes completely, your horse will die, and you will lose your mount permanently unless you have horse reviver in your inventory. The health bar can be damaged by falls, collisions, or attacks from predators or enemies. To restore health, you can use horse tonics or brush and feed your horse regularly. For instance, brushing your horse after a muddy ride near the swamps of Lemoyne will not only improve its health but also increase your bonding level.\n\nBonding with your horse is another crucial aspect tied to the horse icon. As you spend time with your mount, the bonding level increases, which is represented by a small number (1-4) next to the horse icon. Higher bonding levels unlock new abilities, such as better handling, increased stamina, and the ability to perform advanced maneuvers like drifting or rearing. To increase bonding, you can pat your horse, feed it, or lead it on foot. For example, leading your horse through the snowy trails of Ambarino can significantly boost bonding while also allowing you to explore the area safely.\n\nOne common gameplay challenge is managing your horse''s stamina during long chases or escapes. If you find yourself in a situation where your horse is exhausted, such as during a bounty hunter pursuit near Rhodes, you can use the calm button (L3 on PlayStation or LS on Xbox) to soothe your horse and slow its stamina drain. Additionally, upgrading your saddle and stirrups at a stable can provide permanent stamina and health boosts, making your horse more resilient during intense moments.\n\nIn summary, the horse icon on the HUD is a vital tool for monitoring your mount''s condition. By keeping an eye on the stamina and health bars, bonding with your horse, and using the right items and techniques, you can ensure your horse remains a reliable companion throughout your journey in Red Dead Redemption 2. Always carry horse reviver and stimulants, and take the time to care for your horse to maximize its performance and longevity.