What’s the best way to hunt raccoons and badgers at night?

Hunting raccoons and badgers at night in Red Dead Redemption 2 requires a combination of strategy, patience, and the right tools. Both animals are nocturnal, meaning they are most active during the night, making this the ideal time to hunt them. To maximize your success, you’ll need to understand their behavior, use the correct weapons, and know the best locations to find them.\n\nFirst, equip yourself with the right weapons. For raccoons and badgers, a Varmint Rifle is the best choice. This weapon ensures a clean kill without damaging the pelt, which is crucial if you’re hunting for perfect pelts to sell or craft. Additionally, carry a bow with Small Game Arrows as a backup, as it’s quieter and won’t scare off nearby animals. Always aim for headshots to guarantee a clean kill and preserve the quality of the pelt.\n\nNext, use Eagle Eye to track raccoons and badgers. This ability highlights animal tracks, scents, and even the animals themselves in the environment. At night, Eagle Eye is especially useful because visibility is low. Look for glowing tracks or the faint outline of the animal in the distance. Raccoons and badgers are small and fast, so staying alert is key. If you lose track of one, crouch and move slowly to avoid scaring it off.\n\nOne of the best locations to hunt raccoons is near the forests and riverbanks of Lemoyne, particularly around the area of Rhodes. Badgers, on the other hand, are commonly found in the Heartlands, near the oil derrick, and in the grasslands of West Elizabeth. These areas have dense vegetation and open spaces, making it easier to spot and track these animals. At night, focus on areas with minimal human activity to avoid distractions.\n\nA common challenge when hunting at night is the reduced visibility. To counter this, use a lantern or the improved lantern from the Trapper. However, be cautious, as the light can scare animals if you get too close. Alternatively, rely on the moonlight and your minimap to navigate. If you’re struggling to find raccoons or badgers, try using Predator Bait. Place the bait in a secluded area and wait at a distance. This method often lures them out, making them easier to spot and hunt.\n\nOnce you’ve located a raccoon or badger, approach slowly while crouching to minimize noise. If the animal detects you, it will flee, so patience is essential. Use Dead Eye to line up a precise shot, especially if the animal is moving. After a successful kill, skin the animal immediately to collect the pelt and other materials. Store the pelt on your horse or visit a Trapper to sell or craft with it.\n\nFinally, remember that weather conditions can affect your hunt. Rain or fog can make tracking more difficult, so consider waiting for clear nights. Additionally, always carry enough ammunition and supplies, as hunting trips can take longer than expected. With these tips, you’ll be able to efficiently hunt raccoons and badgers at night, ensuring high-quality pelts and a successful hunting experience.\n\nPractical Tip: If you’re struggling to find perfect pelts, study the animals before hunting. A perfect pelt requires a 3-star animal, which can be identified by studying them with binoculars. This ensures you only hunt the highest-quality targets.