How do I use the Bonfire to keep my livestock warm in winter?

In Valheim, keeping your livestock warm during winter is essential for their survival and productivity. The Bonfire is a key structure that provides heat and light, making it a perfect solution for protecting your animals from the cold. To use the Bonfire effectively, you need to understand its mechanics, placement, and fuel requirements.\n\nFirst, you must craft a Bonfire. This requires 5 Stone, 2 Wood, and 2 Resin. Stone can be gathered from the ground or mined from rocks, while Wood is obtained by chopping trees. Resin is dropped by Greydwarfs or found in chests. Once you have the materials, open your Hammer build menu, navigate to the Fire category, and select the Bonfire. Place it in a central location near your livestock pens for maximum coverage.\n\nThe Bonfire emits heat in a radius, which is crucial for keeping animals warm. However, it requires fuel to function. You can fuel it with Wood, which burns at a rate of one piece every 1 minute and 23 seconds. Make sure to stockpile enough Wood before winter arrives, as running out of fuel can leave your animals vulnerable to the cold. A good rule of thumb is to keep at least 50 Wood in a nearby chest for emergencies.\n\nPlacement is critical for the Bonfire''s effectiveness. It should be close enough to your livestock pens to provide warmth but not so close that it causes accidental fires. Animals like Boars, Wolves, and Loxes need to stay within the heat radius to avoid freezing. If your animals are spread out, consider building multiple Bonfires or relocating them to a more centralized area. For example, if you have a large farm in the Meadows biome, place the Bonfire near the center of your pens.\n\nOne common challenge is managing the Bonfire during storms or heavy snowfall. Rain and snow can extinguish the fire, leaving your animals exposed. To prevent this, build a roof or shelter over the Bonfire. Use Wood or Stone structures to create a small covering that protects the fire while still allowing heat to radiate outward. This is especially important in biomes like the Mountains, where weather conditions are harsher.\n\nAnother tip is to combine the Bonfire with other heat sources, such as Campfires or Hearth fires, for added warmth. While the Bonfire has a larger radius, smaller fires can supplement its heat in larger enclosures. For example, if you have a sprawling Wolf breeding area in the Plains biome, placing a few Campfires around the perimeter can ensure all animals stay warm.\n\nFinally, monitor your livestock regularly during winter. If you notice animals shivering or losing health, check the Bonfire''s fuel and placement. Adjust as needed to maintain a consistent heat source. By following these steps, you can ensure your livestock survives the winter and continues to thrive.\n\nIn summary, the Bonfire is a vital tool for keeping livestock warm in Valheim. Craft it using Stone, Wood, and Resin, place it strategically near your pens, and keep it fueled with Wood. Protect it from rain and snow with a roof, and consider adding supplementary heat sources for larger enclosures. With proper planning, your animals will stay warm and healthy throughout the winter.