How to catch maple leaves – Animal Crossing: New Horizons guide

In this Animal Crossing maple leaf guide, we’ll explain how to collect maple leaves, which are limited-time items.

Through the second half of November, Animal Crossing: New Horizons has red maple leaves blowing around players’ islands. Just like cherry blossoms and snowflakes, these are a seasonal crafting resource for some autumn-themed decor and clothing.

How to catch maple leaves in Animal Crossing: New Horizons

The first step in collecting a maple leaf is finding one. With fall coming to an end, you’ll see lots of tiny leaves floating to the ground, but these aren’t the ones you’re looking for.

Image: Nintendo EPD/Nintendo via Polygon

You’ll be able to tell the difference because maple leaves you can collect are much larger, have a shadow, and stick around longer.

When you spot one, pull out your net. You can make a flimsy net from 5 tree branches or a net from 1 flimsy net and 1 iron nugget. You can also buy stylized and fun-shaped nets from Nook’s Cranny for 2,500 Bells.

Line up with the maple leaf, and swing your net just like if you were trying to catch a butterfly or other flying insect. If you’re having trouble, use the shadow on the ground to help your aim.