How do I hunt raccoons and badgers for perfect pelts?

Hunting raccoons and badgers for perfect pelts in Red Dead Redemption 2 requires a combination of the right tools, knowledge of animal behavior, and careful execution. Both raccoons and badgers are small, elusive animals, so precision is key to obtaining their perfect pelts. Here’s a detailed guide to help you succeed.\n\nFirst, you’ll need the right weapon. For raccoons and badgers, the Varmint Rifle is the ideal choice. This weapon is designed for small game and ensures that the pelt quality remains intact. Using a more powerful weapon, like a shotgun or repeater, will damage the pelt and reduce its quality. Always aim for a clean headshot to guarantee a perfect kill. If you don’t have a Varmint Rifle, you can purchase one from any gunsmith or find one during your travels.\n\nNext, you’ll need to locate raccoons and badgers. Raccoons are commonly found in wooded areas, particularly around forests and riverbanks. Badgers, on the other hand, prefer open plains and grasslands. Specific locations include the forests near Rhodes, the area around Emerald Ranch, and the Heartlands. Use your Eagle Eye ability to track their trails, which appear as glowing golden paths. This ability also highlights animals in the environment, making them easier to spot.\n\nOnce you’ve located a raccoon or badger, approach cautiously. These animals are skittish and will flee if they detect you. Crouch to reduce your visibility and move slowly. If the animal starts to run, use Dead Eye to slow time and line up a precise shot. Dead Eye is especially useful for ensuring a clean kill, as it allows you to target the animal’s head with ease.\n\nAfter successfully hunting the animal, inspect the pelt to confirm its quality. Perfect pelts come from three-star animals, so always check the animal’s star rating before shooting. If the animal has fewer than three stars, leave it alone and continue searching. Once you’ve obtained a perfect pelt, store it on your horse or take it to a trapper or butcher to sell or craft items.\n\nCommon challenges include finding three-star animals and avoiding damage to the pelt. To increase your chances of encountering high-quality animals, consider using bait. Herbivore bait works well for raccoons, while carnivore bait is effective for badgers. Place the bait in areas where you’ve seen these animals before, then hide nearby and wait for them to approach. Additionally, avoid hunting during storms or at night, as visibility is reduced, making it harder to spot and track animals.\n\nFinally, here are some practical tips for hunting raccoons and badgers. Always carry enough ammo for your Varmint Rifle, as you may need multiple attempts to find a perfect pelt. Upgrade your satchel to carry more pelts, as this will save you time and trips to the trapper. Lastly, be patient. Hunting for perfect pelts can take time, but the rewards are worth it, especially for crafting valuable items like saddles and clothing.\n\nBy following these steps and tips, you’ll be able to consistently hunt raccoons and badgers for perfect pelts in Red Dead Redemption 2. Happy hunting!