How do you avoid Deathsquito attacks while gathering wood in the Plains?

Gathering wood in the Plains biome of Valheim can be extremely dangerous due to the presence of Deathsquitos, fast and deadly creatures that can kill unprepared players in one or two hits. To avoid Deathsquito attacks while gathering wood, you need to understand their behavior, prepare properly, and use strategic gameplay techniques.\n\nFirst, Deathsquitos are highly aggressive and will attack players on sight. They are fast, have a long aggro range, and deal piercing damage, which can bypass armor if not properly mitigated. To survive, you must prioritize awareness and preparation. Always scout the area before chopping trees, and keep an eye out for Deathsquitos patrolling the area. Use the environment to your advantage by staying near cover, such as large rocks or structures, which can block their line of sight.\n\nPreparation is key to surviving in the Plains. Before venturing into this biome, ensure you have the best armor and weapons available. At a minimum, wear Wolf Armor or Padded Armor, as these provide significant protection against piercing damage. Equip a strong shield, such as the Black Metal Shield or Serpent Scale Shield, to block their attacks. A powerful bow, like the Draugr Fang, is also essential for taking them out from a distance before they can reach you.\n\nWhen gathering wood, always have a plan for escape. Deathsquitos are fast, but they are also fragile. If you spot one approaching, stop what you''re doing and focus on eliminating it immediately. Use your bow to shoot it down before it gets too close. If you''re caught off guard, block its attack with your shield and counter with a melee weapon like a Black Metal Sword or Atgeir. Avoid running in a straight line, as Deathsquitos are faster than you and will catch up quickly. Instead, use zigzag movements or jump over obstacles to break their pursuit.\n\nAnother effective strategy is to bring a Lox or tame a pack of Wolves to accompany you. Lox are naturally resistant to Deathsquito attacks and can tank their damage while you focus on gathering wood. Tamed Wolves can also help by attacking Deathsquitos on sight, giving you time to react. However, be cautious, as Deathsquitos can still pose a threat to your companions.\n\nFinally, consider building a small outpost or fortified area in the Plains to serve as a safe zone. Use stone walls and a roof to create a structure where you can retreat if overwhelmed. Place a portal inside for quick escapes and restock on supplies. This base can also serve as a staging area for your wood-gathering expeditions, allowing you to venture out in short, controlled bursts.\n\nIn summary, avoiding Deathsquito attacks while gathering wood in the Plains requires preparation, awareness, and strategic gameplay. Equip the best armor and weapons, use ranged attacks to eliminate threats, and always have an escape plan. By following these steps, you can safely gather wood and survive the dangers of the Plains biome.