Red Dead Redemption 2 offers a vast, immersive world brimming with challenges and achievements to conquer. Among these is the often-frustrating “Aviary Killer” challenge, which requires players to skillfully shoot five birds from a moving train. This task demands precision, patience, and a bit of strategic planning to pull off successfully. Many players find themselves struggling to hit the mark, especially with the train’s constant motion adding a layer of difficulty.
This guide will break down the most effective methods and tips to help you complete the “kill 5 birds from a moving train” challenge in RDR2, ensuring you can bag those birds and move closer to that coveted 100% completion. We’ll cover everything from the best locations and times to the ideal weapon choices and techniques.
Understanding the “Aviary Killer” Challenge
The core of the challenge, “kill 5 birds from a moving train,” might sound straightforward, but RDR2’s mechanics can make it surprisingly tricky. Birds in the game, especially smaller ones, are fast-moving targets, and their flight paths can be erratic. Combine this with the rocking motion of the train, and you have a recipe for missed shots and wasted ammunition.
The challenge is often part of a larger set of challenges that unlock special gear and rewards, making it a necessary step for dedicated players. Success here isn’t just about luck; it’s about understanding the game’s systems and applying the right tactics. For those looking to master this particular RDR2 challenge, understanding the nuances is key.
Best Locations for the Challenge
Finding the right spot is crucial for maximizing your chances of success. Certain routes on the RDR2 map offer a higher density of bird spawns and are generally less populated by aggressive NPCs or other wildlife that might interfere.
One of the most recommended methods involves using the train tracks that run through the Great Plains region, west of Blackwater. This area is known for having a good variety of bird species, and the train travels at a relatively consistent speed, allowing for better aiming practice. Another viable option is the train route that goes through New Austin. While this territory can be more challenging due to lawmen and outlaws, the birdlife can be plentiful if you find a good stretch of track.
Consider starting the challenge in a chapter where the train is readily available and you have access to decent weaponry. Early game attempts might be hampered by weaker firearms and less familiarity with the game’s aiming mechanics.
Effective Weapon Choices
The type of weapon you use can significantly impact your success rate. While you can technically use any firearm, some are far better suited for this task than others.
- Varmint Rifle: This is often the go-to weapon for smaller game in RDR2, and it works surprisingly well for birds. Its high rate of fire and accuracy make it effective for picking off smaller avian targets. The Varmint Rifle uses .22 caliber ammunition, which is relatively cheap and abundant. Its moderate damage is usually sufficient for birds without causing excessive destruction.
- Repeater (e.g., Lancaster, Lemat): While more powerful than the Varmint Rifle, repeaters can also be effective, especially if you’re struggling with accuracy. The faster firing rate allows for quicker follow-up shots if you miss the first. However, be mindful of over-penetration or causing too much damage, which could spoil the bird for other potential uses if that’s a concern.
- Shotgun (with Slugs or Birdshot): Using a shotgun can be a high-risk, high-reward strategy. Birdshot might be too wide-spread for precise shots at a distance, but slugs, or even a carefully aimed shot at close range, could work. This is generally not recommended unless you’re very close to the birds and have excellent timing.
Regardless of your choice, ensuring your weapon is clean and in good condition will improve its performance. Use Dead Eye to your advantage, especially when targeting birds that are harder to hit.
Step-by-Step Guide to Completing the Challenge
Here’s a tactical approach to successfully bagging those five birds:
1. Prepare Your Loadout
- Weapon: Equip your Varmint Rifle or a preferred repeater. Make sure it’s fully loaded.
- Ammunition: Stock up on plenty of .22 caliber rounds or the appropriate ammo for your chosen weapon.
- Dead Eye: Ensure your Dead Eye meter is full. This is critical for lining up difficult shots. Consider consuming tonics that replenish or enhance Dead Eye if you have them.
2. Find a Suitable Train Route
- Head to the Great Plains or New Austin regions.
- Wait at a train station or along the tracks until a train approaches. You can often hear its whistle in advance.
3. Board the Train and Prepare to Shoot
- Once the train starts moving, find a relatively open car to stand in, preferably one with a clear view of the surroundings.
- Keep your chosen weapon equipped and ready. As the train picks up speed, start scanning the skies and the landscape for birds.
4. Target Acquisition and Dead Eye
- Patience is Key: Don’t rush your shots. Wait for birds to fly into a clear line of sight. They often appear in small flocks or individually.
- Use Dead Eye: When you spot a bird, activate Dead Eye. This will slow down time, allowing you to aim precisely.
- Mark Your Targets: In Dead Eye, aim at a bird and press the mark button (R1/RB by default). Do this for up to five birds if you can spot them quickly. Try to mark birds that are relatively close and flying in predictable paths.
- Fire: Once your targets are marked, fire your weapon. Dead Eye will automatically shoot at each marked spot.
5. Follow-Up Shots and Observation
- Missed Shots: If you miss a bird or only hit one or two, don’t despair. The train will continue along its route, and more birds will likely appear.
- Repositioning: If needed, move to a different part of the train car for a better vantage point.
- Continue Scanning: Keep your eyes peeled for more birds. They might fly alongside the train or perch on nearby trees and structures.
- Check Your Progress: Periodically check your challenge progress in the pause menu to see how many birds you’ve successfully shot.
Tips for Success
- Timing is Everything: Birds often fly in patterns. Watch their flight paths for a moment before activating Dead Eye to anticipate their movement.
- Look for Specific Bird Types: While any bird counts, you might find certain species easier to hit. Look for larger birds like crows or gulls, which can be slightly slower or more predictable.
- Environmental Cues: Birds tend to congregate near water sources or wooded areas. Keep an eye on these locations as the train passes by.
- Don’t Engage Enemies: If the train route passes through hostile territory, focus solely on the birds. Engaging in shootouts will distract you and make the challenge much harder. You can always deal with outlaws after completing the task.
- Consider the Time of Day: While not strictly necessary, dawn and dusk can sometimes lead to increased bird activity.
- Practice Makes Perfect: If you fail the first few times, don’t get discouraged. RDR2 challenges often require multiple attempts. Each attempt is a learning opportunity. Understanding how to shoot birds from a train is a skill that improves with practice.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
- The Train Itself: The constant movement of the train is the primary difficulty. Using Dead Eye mitigates this significantly. Remember that your aim reticle will also move with the train, so factor that into your manual aiming if not using Dead Eye.
- Bird Speed and Evasiveness: Birds are designed to be difficult targets. Marking them in Dead Eye is your best bet. If you’re manually aiming, try to lead your shots slightly.
- Low Ammunition: Ensure you have more than enough ammo before you start. Running out mid-challenge is a common frustration.
- Distractions: Hostile NPCs, other wildlife, or even random events can pull your attention away. Try to find a train route that’s relatively peaceful or be prepared to ignore distractions.
Conclusion: Master the Aviary Killer Challenge
Conquering the “kill 5 birds from a moving train” challenge in Red Dead Redemption 2 is a test of skill and persistence. By choosing the right location, equipping the appropriate weapon, and mastering the use of Dead Eye, you can overcome the difficulties presented by this task. Remember to stay patient, keep scanning the skies, and make every shot count.
This challenge, like many others in RDR2, offers a satisfying sense of accomplishment once completed. Keep practicing these techniques, and soon you’ll be adding this feather to your cap, one perfectly aimed shot at a time. The world of RDR2 is full of rewarding experiences for those willing to put in the effort, and mastering these unique gameplay elements is part of what makes the game so enduring.
