Animal Crossing Tarantula & Tiger Beetle Hunting
Animal Crossing New Horizons offers a plethora of activities, and among the most engaging is the pursuit of rare and valuable insects. Two of the most sought-after bugs are the elusive tarantula and the striking tiger beetle. Both can fetch a high price at Nook’s Cranny, making them a fantastic source of Bells, the in-game currency. This guide delves into the art of catching these creatures, offering strategies and tips to maximize your success and fill your pockets with Bells. Whether you’re a seasoned islander or a newcomer, mastering the techniques of tarantula and tiger beetle hunting will significantly enhance your Animal Crossing experience.
Understanding Tarantulas & Tiger Beetles
Before you begin your hunting expedition, it’s essential to understand your prey. Knowing their behavior, habitats, and appearance will significantly increase your chances of catching them. Both the tarantula and the tiger beetle have unique characteristics that set them apart and influence how you approach them. Familiarizing yourself with these details can save you from wasted time and potential stings.
What are Tarantulas
Tarantulas are large, intimidating spiders that appear on your island during specific times of the day and year. They are most active at night and can be found roaming freely. When approached, tarantulas will raise their front legs and prepare to attack if you get too close. Catching them requires patience and precise movements, as a single misstep can result in a bite, causing you to faint and lose any items you’re carrying. Their value is high, making them a prized catch.
What are Tiger Beetles
Tiger beetles, on the other hand, are ground-dwelling insects known for their vibrant colors and speed. They can be found scuttling across the ground, primarily near sandy areas. Unlike tarantulas, tiger beetles are less aggressive but incredibly fast. They will quickly flee if they detect you, so a stealthy approach is essential. Their value, while not as high as tarantulas, still provides a decent return, and their presence adds another layer of excitement to your bug-catching endeavors.
Tools Needed For Hunting
The most important tool for catching both tarantulas and tiger beetles is your trusty net. Without it, these insects are impossible to capture. Additionally, having a clear understanding of the terrain and a plan of action can dramatically increase your chances of success. You will also want to have a good stock of items and money, to be prepared for a potentially long hunting session.
The Importance of a Net
Your net is the single most crucial tool in your arsenal. Make sure you have a durable net, as it will break after repeated use. You can craft or purchase nets from Nook’s Cranny. It is important to note that the better the net, the more it can be used before it breaks, so the stronger the net the better. Also, the Golden Net can catch bugs from a greater distance than a normal net, and is recommended.
Essential Preparation Steps
Before setting out, there are steps you can take to maximize your hunting efficiency. These steps involve preparing your island environment, understanding the best times to hunt, and knowing the behavior of your targets. Preparing your island can be a lot of work, but the benefits will far outweigh the time spent.
Island Preparation for Tarantulas
Tarantulas spawn on open ground, so clearing your island of obstacles like flowers, weeds, and rocks can be a great strategy. You can also dig holes in strategic locations to create traps, though be careful not to fall in yourself. Removing all these potential spawn points will make it easier to find the ones you are looking for. This reduces the potential spawn locations of other bugs, thus increasing the likelihood of tarantulas appearing.
Creating the Perfect Tiger Beetle Habitat
Tiger beetles prefer sandy areas, so if your island has a beach, that is where you’ll want to spend most of your time. You can create artificial beaches by laying down custom designs that mimic sand. This can help concentrate the tiger beetle spawn, making them easier to find and catch.
Effective Hunting Strategies
Successfully catching tarantulas and tiger beetles involves employing specific strategies tailored to their behavior. Patience, stealth, and precise timing are key. Knowing how to approach each insect, and when to swing your net, will make a huge difference in your success rate.
Tarantula Hunting Strategies
When encountering a tarantula, approach slowly with your net equipped. If the tarantula raises its front legs, stop moving immediately. Wait for it to lower its legs before taking another step. Repeat this process until you are close enough to swing your net. Timing is essential, as a mistimed swing will cause it to attack. Practice makes perfect, but you want to get the timing down right to avoid a bite.
Tiger Beetle Hunting Strategies
For tiger beetles, a quick and stealthy approach is best. Slowly creep up on the beetle and quickly swing your net when close enough. Be ready to chase, as they are fast and will run away if they spot you. Since they are fast, quick reflexes are needed. Practice makes perfect.
Maximizing Your Catch
Several factors can help you improve your catch rate and overall profitability. Knowing the best times and locations to hunt, and how to make the most of your hunting trips, is key to success.
Best Times to Hunt
Tarantulas are primarily active at night, so the best time to hunt them is between 7 PM and 4 AM. Tiger beetles are more active during the day, especially in the morning and afternoon. Plan your hunting trips accordingly to maximize your chances.
Best Locations for Hunting
Tarantulas can spawn anywhere on your island, but cleared areas are preferable. Tiger beetles are found on the beach or sandy areas. Take the time to prepare these areas before beginning your hunt. Knowing the specific times and locations is key to a successful hunting session.
Selling Your Bugs
Once you’ve caught your tarantulas and tiger beetles, it’s time to sell them. You can sell your bugs to Nook’s Cranny or wait for Flick, the bug enthusiast, to visit your island. Selling to Flick will get you a higher price, but he only visits occasionally.
How to Sell Your Bugs
At Nook’s Cranny, simply speak to Timmy or Tommy and select the option to sell your items. If Flick is on your island, he will be in the plaza. Speak to him to sell your bugs for a premium price. The higher the price, the more Bells you’ll get, and the more things you can purchase for your island.
Maximizing Profits
To maximize profits, consider storing your bugs and waiting for Flick to visit. While you can’t predict when he will arrive, the extra Bells are worth the wait if you have the space. Selling a large quantity of tarantulas and tiger beetles will significantly increase your Bells, allowing you to invest in island upgrades, home expansions, and other in-game items.
In conclusion, mastering the art of tarantula and tiger beetle hunting in Animal Crossing: New Horizons can be a rewarding and profitable endeavor. By understanding their behavior, preparing your island, employing effective hunting strategies, and knowing how to sell your catches, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a successful bug hunter. Happy hunting!