Mastering the art of capturing rare endemic species in Monster Hunter Wilds can turn any player into a top-notch hunter, as venturing into the wilds requires a keen sense of observation and patience. In this exciting guide, players can explore the whereabouts of various elusive creatures across diverse terrains—from the Windward Plains to the vibrant Scarlet Forest—all while unlocking achievements that enhance their gameplay experience.
The expedition is critical not only for filling in gaps in the game's extensive bestiary but also for unlocking numerous trophies and enhancing gameplay skills. For example, catching the elusive Sandstar during the Plenty season allows players to earn the coveted "I Caught a Shooting Star" trophy, while the Black Windrustler can be spotted thrice as players which can be found at certain strategic areas.
In the expansive Windward Plains, hunters can find two unique endemic life forms: the Sandstar and the Black Windrustler. The Sandstar glows beautifully and requires astute timing, as it is only visible during the night and appears primarily during the Plenty and Fallow seasons. Players should focus on the upper areas of Area 13 to spot this glowing wonder.
To successfully capture one, the best approach is to carry Screamer Pods to stagger it momentarily before deploying a capture net. Players should also be mindful that the Sandstar is illusive and can disappear quickly, requiring skill and determination to catch.
The Black Windrustler, known for its rare appearances during the Plenty season, can be found roaming around areas 7, 8, and 10 of the plains. Its dark scales may blend slightly with the environment, making it a bit tricky to spot, but with patience, skilled players can add this creature to their collection.
Moving on from the Windward Plains to the lush Scarlet Forest, a hunter can discover a treasure trove of seven different specimens, most readily found during the Plenty season. Among these is the purple-tinged Hymstrigian, located at the heart of a shallow river in Area 8. This ephemeral bird is notably more active during the day, requiring hunters to be observant and quick.
The Dazzlewing, another rare find, inhabits broken treetops within Areas 6 and 11, but only during daylight hours. It is essential to remain quiet and patient to successfully ensnare it using a net, as these diurnal creatures tend to be skittish.
Other notable endemic life forms in the Scarlet Forest include the Regal Jewel Scarab, which hides within tree trunks in Areas 2 and 3 during the Fallow season; the Goliath Squid prevalent in Area 17 at night, and the Petricanths found nearby the Ruin Interior Camp in Area 16. In fact, the Goliath Squid must be caught using specialized fishing bait, adding an extra layer of challenge to capturing this magnificent creature.
The hunting journey continues in the Oilwell Basin, where players can encounter three elusive creatures: Azure Rufflizards, Peony Sparklerjellies, and Nu Yayas. The Azure Rufflizard is easier to find, often spotted lounging around Area 4 by the ancient forge. The other two, however, have special requirements—most notably, the Peony Sparklerjelly, which appears only during the night and can be identified by its larger-than-average size.
As for the Nu Yaya, hunters need to engage in some preparatory exploration before they can find this offspring of the Nu Udra. Players must successfully navigate the Firespring (Inclemency) season while a Tempered Nu Udra roams to witness the spawning of the Nu Yaya in Area 17.
In the icy realms of the Iceshard Cliffs and the Ruins of Wyveria, players can hunt down three additional endemic life specimens. Notably, Downy Crakes can be seen riding smaller monsters during the Fallow season—these creatures are unique as they blend into their surroundings.
The Gillopods appear exclusively during the Wyvern’s Stirring (Inclemency) season, prominently on the path leading to Area 2; players must engage in daytime hunts to capture them successfully. Finally, the elusive Prism Hercudrome spawns only in one specific location at the heart of Ruins of Wyveria and requires skill and strategy to catch during the late-night hours.
Once charismatic creatures are captured, players may wonder how to best showcase their hard-fought trophies. Unfortunately, displaying rare endemic life finds is restricted in Monster Hunter Wilds. Players can only showcase their trophies at the main tent in the Windward Plains Base Camp, where through resets, different creatures will be visible at random.
Whether hunting rare endemic life or exploring unknown territories, Monster Hunter Wilds offers players an immersive experience filled with challenges and adventures waiting to be undertaken. Embrace the wild and rally your friends to reap the rewards of your hunting prowess!