How do I identify a three-star animal before hunting it?

Identifying a three-star animal in Red Dead Redemption 2 is crucial for obtaining perfect pelts, which are required for crafting high-quality gear and completing certain challenges. To identify a three-star animal, you must use the game''s built-in tracking and observation mechanics. When you spot an animal, aim your weapon or binoculars at it to bring up its information. This will display the animal''s quality rating, ranging from one to three stars. A three-star rating indicates a perfect pelt, while one or two stars mean the pelt will be of lower quality.\n\nTo ensure you''re targeting the right animal, use the binoculars or a scoped weapon to observe it from a distance. This prevents spooking the animal and allows you to assess its quality without alerting it. For example, if you''re hunting deer in the forests near Valentine, crouch and move slowly while scanning the area with binoculars. When you spot a deer, aim at it to check its star rating. If it''s three stars, proceed carefully to avoid damaging the pelt.\n\nAnother key mechanic is the use of the right weapon and ammunition for each animal type. Using the wrong weapon can degrade the pelt quality, even if the animal was initially three stars. For instance, small animals like rabbits and squirrels require a Varmint Rifle, while larger animals like deer and elk need a rifle with high-velocity ammunition. Always refer to the animal''s information in the compendium to confirm the correct weapon and ammo type.\n\nCommon challenges include animals fleeing before you can assess their quality or accidentally damaging the pelt during the hunt. To avoid this, use cover scent lotion to mask your scent and approach animals from downwind. Additionally, practice patience and avoid rushing the shot. For example, when hunting cougars in the forests of Roanoke Ridge, wait for the animal to stop moving and aim for a clean headshot to preserve the pelt.\n\nFinally, consider using Dead Eye to improve your accuracy and ensure a clean kill. Dead Eye allows you to mark critical areas like the head or heart, increasing your chances of a perfect pelt. For example, when hunting bison in the Heartlands, activate Dead Eye to target the heart for an instant kill. Remember to skin the animal immediately after the kill to secure the pelt.\n\nIn summary, identifying a three-star animal requires careful observation, the right tools, and strategic hunting techniques. Use binoculars or a scoped weapon to check the animal''s quality, choose the correct weapon and ammo, and aim for clean kills to preserve the pelt. With practice, you''ll master the art of hunting and consistently obtain perfect pelts for your crafting needs.