Hunting Cougars (Pumas) in Red Dead Redemption 2: A Comprehensive Guide

So, you’re looking to bag yourself a perfect puma pelt in Red Dead Redemption 2, eh? It’s a worthy goal, as the rewards can be significant. But these elusive predators are not to be trifled with. This guide will arm you with the knowledge you need to track, hunt, and kill cougars effectively and humanely (well, as humanely as virtual hunting gets).

The Puma Hunting Strategy: A Step-by-Step Approach

Here’s the core strategy for securing that perfect cougar pelt:

1. Location, Location, Location: Knowing where to find cougars is half the battle. Consult your map and focus on areas known for cougar spawns. Key locations include:

   • Roanoke Valley: This area is a reliable spot.
   • Beaver Hollow: Another good bet for spotting a cougar.
   • Brandywine Drop: Check both sides of the Brandywine Drop and the forestry upriver.
   • Manito Glade: Often a productive hunting ground.
   • Black Balsam Rise: Explore the far-east region.
   • Kamassa River Falls: Investigate either side of the pond below the Kamassa River Falls near the state border.
   • West Elizabeth: This is the most common spawn location.

2. The Right Tool for the Job: The article states you can use a rifle with any ammo except explosives or poison arrows. For hunting cougars specifically, consider these weapons:

   • Bolt Action Rifle or Springfield Rifle: These rifles with a high-powered scope offer a good balance of accuracy and stopping power. Aim for a headshot for a clean kill.
   • Improved Arrows (with a Longarm Back Bow): This combination, aimed at the head or heart, can bring down a cougar in one shot.

3. Baiting Techniques: Using bait strategically can significantly increase your chances.

   • Potent Predator Bait: Place this bait in a likely cougar habitat. Move a safe distance away (but keep it within sight using your binoculars) and wait.
   • Cover Scent Lotion: Always use cover scent lotion to mask your scent, particularly when using bait. This prevents the cougar from detecting you before you get a shot.

4. Tracking and Observation: Cougars blend remarkably well with their environment.

   • Use Eagle Eye: Activate Eagle Eye frequently to spot tracks, droppings, and other signs of cougar activity.
   • Listen Carefully: Cougars often make distinctive growls or snarls before attacking.
   • Scan the Landscape: Look for cougars sunning themselves on rocks or crouched in the brush.

5. The Perfect Kill: This is where it all comes together.

   • Three-Star Animal: Ensure the cougar is a three-star animal before you even attempt to hunt it. A lower-rated animal will never yield a perfect pelt.
   • Clean Shot: Aim for a headshot with your chosen weapon. A clean, one-shot kill is essential for a perfect pelt.
   • Dead Eye: Use Dead Eye to slow down time and ensure your shot is accurate, especially if the cougar is charging.

6. Handling the Encounter: Cougars are aggressive and can be deadly.

   • Be Prepared: Always be aware of your surroundings and keep your weapon ready.
   • Anticipate the Attack: Cougars often attack from ambush, so be vigilant when traveling through known cougar habitats.
   • If Attacked: If a cougar attacks, use Dead Eye to quickly target its head and fire. A well-placed shot can save your life.

Puma Pelt Perfection: Important Considerations

• Rifle Ammunition: High Velocity or Express Ammo are good choices for rifles, providing increased damage and accuracy.
• Bow Arrows: If you’re using a bow, craft Improved Arrows for increased damage. Avoid poison arrows if you want a perfect pelt (unless required for a specific challenge).
• Hunting Wagon: If you plan on hunting multiple cougars, consider bringing your hunting wagon to store the carcasses.

By following these steps and practicing your hunting skills, you’ll be well on your way to obtaining those coveted perfect cougar pelts. Good luck, and happy hunting!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Hunting Cougars in RDR2

Here are some additional questions you might have about hunting cougars in Red Dead Redemption 2.

Can I use predator bait to attract cougars?

Yes, Potent Predator Bait is effective for attracting cougars. Place it in a known cougar habitat, use cover scent lotion, and wait patiently.

What’s the best weapon for a clean kill on a cougar?

A Bolt Action Rifle or Springfield Rifle with High Velocity or Express Ammo, aimed at the head, is an excellent choice. Improved Arrows are also effective if aimed at the head or heart.

Where is the best place to find cougars in RDR2?

Key locations include Roanoke Valley, Beaver Hollow, Brandywine Drop, Manito Glade, and Black Balsam Rise.

Does the time of day affect cougar spawns?

While cougars can spawn at any time, they are often more active during dawn and dusk.

What do I do if a cougar attacks me?

Use Dead Eye to quickly target its head and fire. A well-placed shot is crucial for survival.

How do I get a perfect pelt?

The animal must be a three-star animal. Use the right weapon for a clean kill, aiming for the head.

Why am I not getting perfect pelts?

Ensure the animal is a three-star animal, and you’re using the appropriate weapon for a clean, one-shot kill. Avoid using explosives or poison arrows. Any animal with a two star rating or lower will not produce a perfect pelt.

Is there a legendary cougar in RDR2?

Yes, the Legendary Cougar is found in New Austin, the most southwesterly point on the map.

What is the Legendary Cougar pelt used for?

The Legendary Cougar Pelt can be sold to the Trapper for crafting. The Legendary Cougar Fang can be sold to a Fence and is used to craft the Cougar Fang Trinket, which increases XP gains by 10%.

What is the difference between a cougar and a puma?

There is no difference. “Cougar” and “puma” are different names for the same animal.

What other animals are difficult to hunt in RDR2?

Other challenging animals to hunt include Panthers, Grizzly Bears, Moose, and elusive birds like the American Robin.

What is the value of a perfect cougar pelt and carcass?

A perfect Cougar pelt is worth $5.00, and a perfect Cougar Carcass will net an outlaw $13.50.

Can I use a Varmint Rifle to hunt cougars?

While the Varmint Rifle is excellent for small game, it’s not powerful enough for a clean kill on a cougar and will likely damage the pelt.

Can I sell the cougar carcass?

Yes, you can sell the cougar carcass to a trapper or butcher for a good price.

Are there any other resources to improve my skills in RDR2?

Absolutely! Exploring the Games Learning Society, or GamesLearningSociety.org, can provide insights into the educational aspects of gaming and how games can enhance various skills, including problem-solving and strategic thinking, which are beneficial for mastering Red Dead Redemption 2.