In Red Dead Redemption 2, players encounter a wide variety of wildlife, each behaving with remarkable realism. Among these creatures is the opossum, a small animal known for its unique survival tactic playing dead, or ‘playing possum.’ Killing an opossum playing possum in RDR2 can be trickier than it sounds, especially since the animal will pretend to be dead until the danger passes. Understanding how to find, approach, and identify when an opossum is faking death is key to successfully hunting one, which is often needed for crafting, compendium completion, or hunting challenges.
Understanding Opossum Behavior in RDR2
What Does ‘Playing Possum’ Mean?
In the real world, opossums sometimes fake their death to avoid predators. Rockstar Games implemented this behavior into the wildlife AI of RDR2. When startled, the opossum may collapse to the ground and appear lifeless, tricking players into thinking it is already dead. If left alone for too long, it will get up and run away once it feels safe.
This makes hunting opossums in RDR2 more interesting and realistic. However, it can also confuse players, especially those trying to complete certain tasks that involve killing or collecting perfect pelts from opossums.
Why Kill an Opossum Playing Possum?
There are several reasons why players might seek to kill an opossum that is playing dead:
- Compendium Entry: Killing and skinning the opossum adds its details to the game’s compendium.
- Perfect Pelt Collection: You may need opossum pelts for crafting satchels, trinkets, or outfits.
- Hunting Challenges: Some challenges require players to kill specific animals, including small game.
- Achievement or Trophy Progress: Killing one of each animal type contributes to 100% completion.
Where to Find Opossums in Red Dead Redemption 2
Best Locations for Opossum Spawns
Opossums in RDR2 are nocturnal, so your best chance of finding one is at night. They are typically found in forests, swamps, and areas with dense vegetation. The following locations are known hotspots for opossum activity:
- Bluewater Marsh: Located northeast of Saint Denis, this swampy area is ideal for small critters.
- South of Rhodes: The woods and grasslands in Lemoyne often spawn opossums after dusk.
- West Elizabeth: Forested areas around Tall Trees are good spots for nighttime hunting.
To improve your chances, ride slowly on your horse or walk on foot during night hours (usually after 9 PM in-game time). Use your Eagle Eye to spot animal trails or glows from wildlife.
How to Spot an Opossum Playing Possum
Behavior Clues and Signs
If you shoot near an opossum or get too close, it may not immediately run away like most animals. Instead, it might fall over and lie still. Here’s how to determine if it’s playing dead:
- The opossum collapses without visible wounds or blood.
- Its body doesn’t register as a kill (you can’t skin or pick it up immediately).
- The animal is still visible in Eagle Eye as alive, even though it appears motionless.
Don’t be fooled. If you walk away for a few seconds and return, or stay still and observe, you might see the opossum suddenly get up and sprint away. To kill it while playing possum, act quickly before it has a chance to run.
Best Weapon and Approach
Use the Right Tools for a Clean Kill
To preserve the quality of the opossum pelt, it’s important to use the appropriate weapon. Opossums are small animals, so large-caliber weapons will ruin their pelts. Here are the best options:
- Varmint Rifle: This is the ideal weapon for small game, preserving pelt quality.
- Bow with Small Game Arrows: Offers a silent kill with perfect results.
If you encounter an opossum playing possum, aim carefully and shoot while it’s on the ground. A headshot is the most effective way to kill it instantly without damaging the pelt. Avoid using revolvers or shotguns, as these can result in poor quality pelts or completely ruin the carcass.
Maximizing Rewards from the Kill
Skinning and Loot
Once you’ve successfully killed the opossum, approach the body and skin it to collect the pelt and other items. A perfect opossum pelt can be used for crafting upgrades with the Trapper. In some cases, you may also find small amounts of meat and animal fat, which are useful for cooking and crafting ammunition.
Crafting Uses
- Satchels: Specific satchel upgrades require perfect small game pelts.
- Trinkets and Talismans: Occasionally, the opossum contributes to crafting materials sold at fences.
- Clothing Items: The Trapper can craft unique outfits using opossum pelts.
Tips for Easier Hunting
Using Bait
Using predator or herbivore bait can sometimes lure opossums out from cover. Place bait in a quiet wooded area at night and hide a short distance away. After a few minutes, small animals may approach the bait, giving you a perfect opportunity to observe and hunt.
Travel with a Hunting Wagon
If you’re aiming to collect multiple perfect pelts or carcasses, bring along your hunting wagon (available in Red Dead Online or via mods in story mode) to store the kills. This is especially useful if you’re farming materials for crafting or selling.
Watch the Time
Remember that opossums are most active at night. Avoid hunting them during the day, as they rarely appear in bright sunlight. If you don’t find one during your first search, make camp and wait until nightfall before trying again.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t Walk Away Too Soon
Many players assume the opossum is already dead and move on. Always verify the kill before leaving. If it doesn’t show a loot or skin prompt, there’s a good chance it’s faking. Give it a few seconds and see if it moves. Firing a warning shot nearby may also force the animal to get up.
Don’t Use the Wrong Weapon
Using a weapon like a repeater or shotgun on an opossum will destroy the pelt. Always carry a varmint rifle or small game arrows when hunting small animals, especially if you’re trying to get perfect pelts for crafting or trading.
Killing an opossum playing possum in Red Dead Redemption 2 is a fun and rewarding experience once you understand their behavior and how to react. Patience and observation are crucial. Use the correct weapons, hunt at the right time, and always verify if the animal is truly dead before turning away. With the right approach, you’ll not only succeed in your hunt but also gather valuable materials to help you progress further in the game.