Atlas Moth vs Tarantula Animal Crossing Showdown
Animal Crossing: New Horizons is filled with creatures to catch, from the smallest bugs to the most elusive fish. Among the most sought-after are the Atlas Moth and the Tarantula, both valuable catches for your museum and your wallet. This guide dives deep into a showdown, comparing these two creatures to help you become a more effective island resident. We’ll explore their behaviors, where to find them, how to catch them, and which one reigns supreme in terms of value and difficulty. Whether you’re a seasoned islander or just starting out, understanding these critters is essential for maximizing your Animal Crossing experience.
Atlas Moth Overview
The Atlas Moth, a magnificent insect with impressive wings, is a prized catch in Animal Crossing. Known for its stunning patterns and large size, it’s a beautiful addition to your insect collection. Catching the Atlas Moth provides a satisfying experience. It can be a bit of a challenge to find, making each capture all the more rewarding. The Atlas Moth is a nocturnal insect. This means that you will have to do your hunting in the evening. You’ll be able to distinguish them by their large wingspans and distinctive color patterns.
Appearance and Behavior
The Atlas Moth is easily recognizable by its large size and intricate wing patterns. It typically has a wingspan that makes it stand out among other flying insects in the game. In Animal Crossing, the Atlas Moth will appear flying around flowers and trees. They move gracefully, and their flight patterns are quite distinctive. Players need to observe the surroundings to identify the Atlas Moth, which can be tricky because of the number of other insects flying around the flowers and trees.
Location and Spawning
Atlas Moths appear in Animal Crossing: New Horizons during specific months, depending on your hemisphere. In the Northern Hemisphere, you can find them from April to September, and in the Southern Hemisphere, they appear from October to March. Atlas Moths spawn near flowers, especially those that are brightly colored, as well as around trees. The best time to hunt for them is during the evening hours, typically between 7 PM and 4 AM. Regularly checking your island, particularly flower patches and tree lines, will increase your chances of finding one.
Selling Price
The Atlas Moth has a good selling price at Nook’s Cranny, providing a decent return for your effort. You can sell an Atlas Moth for 3,000 Bells. If you’re lucky enough to encounter Flick, the bug enthusiast, you can sell your Atlas Moths to him for 4,500 Bells. This makes the Atlas Moth a valuable catch for earning Bells, especially when compared to other, less valuable insects. Collecting and selling Atlas Moths can be a lucrative activity in Animal Crossing.
Tarantula Overview
The Tarantula, a fearsome arachnid, is another creature that Animal Crossing players often seek. Known for its aggressive behavior and high selling price, the Tarantula offers both excitement and rewards. Catching a Tarantula is more challenging than catching many other bugs, requiring careful strategy and a bit of luck. For those looking to make Bells quickly, the Tarantula is one of the most efficient ways to earn them. Mastering the art of catching Tarantulas requires patience and skill, and it is a favorite activity of many players.
Appearance and Behavior
Tarantulas are easily identifiable by their large size, black color, and quick movements. In Animal Crossing, they appear on the ground, and when approached, they will raise their legs and attempt to attack you. If you get too close or run, they will chase after you, and you’ll faint, waking up at your home. Because of their aggressive behavior, catching them requires stealth and precision. The challenge adds a thrilling element to the game, making Tarantula hunting a memorable experience.
Location and Spawning
Tarantulas spawn on your island under specific conditions, and also on mystery islands, typically between 7 PM and 4 AM. They prefer open spaces, so clearing your island of clutter can increase the spawn rate. The Tarantula spawning season varies. In the Northern Hemisphere, you can find them from November to April, and in the Southern Hemisphere, they appear from May to October. Some players create ‘Tarantula islands’ by clearing all flowers, trees, and items, which significantly increases the spawn rate. Be aware of their aggressive behavior as you look for these creatures.
Selling Price
Tarantulas are one of the most valuable insects in Animal Crossing, making them a top choice for making Bells. At Nook’s Cranny, you can sell a Tarantula for 8,000 Bells. If you sell to Flick, you can get a boosted price of 12,000 Bells. This high selling price is a major incentive for players to actively hunt Tarantulas, which makes the effort worthwhile. The ability to make substantial profits from Tarantulas makes them a key part of the game’s economy.
Atlas Moth vs Tarantula Catching Strategies
Best Times to Catch
The best times to catch the Atlas Moth and Tarantula are during their active hours. Atlas Moths are most active in the evening, usually between 7 PM and 4 AM. Plan your hunting sessions during these times to maximize your chances of finding them. Tarantulas are also most active during the same evening hours. The overlap in active times means you can potentially hunt for both creatures during the same session. Monitoring the in-game clock is essential for successful hunting.
Island Preparation
Preparing your island is crucial for both Atlas Moths and Tarantulas. For Atlas Moths, focus on keeping flowers well-watered, as this attracts them to your island. For Tarantulas, create open spaces on your island by removing flowers, trees, and items. This will allow Tarantulas to spawn more frequently. Consider visiting mystery islands to find resources and increase the number of bugs and spiders you might find. Always carry a net to catch the creatures.
Catching Techniques
Catching Atlas Moths is more straightforward. Walk slowly, approaching them with your net ready. If you spook them, they might fly away, but they often return. Catching Tarantulas requires a different approach due to their aggressive behavior. Slowly approach them while holding your net. If they raise their legs, stop moving. Once they lower their legs, slowly approach again. Repeat this until you are close enough to swing your net. Be patient and avoid running, as this will trigger an attack. The challenge is part of the thrill.
Atlas Moth vs Tarantula: Which is Better
Rarity and Value
The Tarantula is generally rarer on your island compared to the Atlas Moth, especially outside of its peak season. However, during the peak season, Tarantulas can be found in large numbers if you prepare your island correctly. In terms of value, Tarantulas are significantly more valuable, with a base selling price of 8,000 Bells compared to the Atlas Moth’s 3,000 Bells. If you’re focused on making Bells quickly, the Tarantula is the better choice. Both are still valuable catches for their respective selling prices.
Overall Difficulty
Catching the Atlas Moth is generally easier due to its passive behavior. However, finding one can take time. The Tarantula presents a higher difficulty because of its aggressive behavior. Players need to be patient and use a strategic approach to avoid being attacked. The overall difficulty also depends on island preparation. Creating a ‘Tarantula island’ can simplify the process. Both can be tricky, but the Tarantula is known for its chase when you get too close.
Maximizing Profits
To maximize profits, focus on catching Tarantulas. Clear your island, and prepare for nighttime hunting. Sell your catches to Flick for the highest possible price, which will boost the earnings from each catch. For Atlas Moths, focus on selling to Flick as well. Regularly check your island for both creatures during their active hours. Consider using the Nook Miles Ticket to visit mystery islands. Building a strategy is important, which requires an understanding of their spawn rates.
In conclusion, both the Atlas Moth and the Tarantula are valuable catches in Animal Crossing: New Horizons. The Tarantula offers higher profits and a more challenging experience, while the Atlas Moth provides a less stressful but still rewarding hunt. By understanding their behaviors, locations, and strategies, you can effectively catch both creatures and make the most of your island life. Happy hunting!