What is the most effective way to tame a Quetzal in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Taming a Quetzal in ARK: Survival Evolved is one of the most challenging but rewarding tasks in the game. The Quetzal is a large, flying creature that can carry heavy loads and serve as an excellent mobile base. However, its high mobility and tendency to flee when attacked make it difficult to tame. Below is a detailed guide on how to effectively tame a Quetzal, covering mechanics, strategies, and tips.

The Quetzal can only be tamed through knockout taming, meaning you must render it unconscious before feeding it its preferred food. The Quetzal prefers Kibble (Superior), Raw Mutton, or Raw Prime Meat for taming. Kibble is the most effective, as it speeds up the taming process and yields better taming effectiveness. Before attempting to tame a Quetzal, gather the necessary resources, including Tranquilizer Arrows or Darts, a long-range weapon like a Crossbow or Longneck Rifle, and plenty of Narcotics or Bio Toxin to keep it unconscious. You will also need a flying mount, such as an Argentavis or Pteranodon, to chase and engage the Quetzal.

The first step is to locate a Quetzal. They are often found flying high above the map, particularly in open areas like the Redwood Forest or the central parts of the map. Once you spot one, approach it carefully with your flying mount. The Quetzal will flee if attacked, so you need a strategy to keep it in place. One common method is to use a grappling hook and a parachute. Fly close to the Quetzal, dismount, and use the grappling hook to attach yourself to your flying mount. This allows you to shoot the Quetzal while your mount follows it. Alternatively, you can use a Tapejara with a second player riding in the front seat to shoot the Quetzal while the pilot controls the mount.

As you shoot the Quetzal with Tranquilizer Arrows or Darts, keep an eye on its torpor level. The Quetzal has high torpor, so it will take many shots to knock it out. Be prepared to chase it for a long time, as it will fly away when attacked. Once the Quetzal is unconscious, quickly land and place a taming pen around it if possible. This will protect it from predators and prevent it from waking up and flying away. Feed it the preferred food and monitor its torpor level, using Narcotics or Bio Toxin to keep it unconscious as needed.

One common mistake is underestimating the time and resources required to tame a Quetzal. The process can take a long time, especially if you are using less effective food like Raw Prime Meat. Always bring extra Narcotics and food to avoid running out mid-tame. Another mistake is not having a plan for chasing the Quetzal. Without a grappling hook or a second player, it can be nearly impossible to keep up with the Quetzal while shooting it.

For advanced players, using a Quetzal platform saddle can make the taming process easier. Build a small taming pen on the platform and lure the Quetzal into it. This method requires a second Quetzal, but it allows you to trap the wild Quetzal and tame it without chasing it across the map. Another optimization is to use a Tek Bow with Tranq Arrows, as it deals more torpor damage and can knock out the Quetzal faster.

In terms of resource requirements, you will need a significant amount of Tranquilizer Arrows or Darts, Narcotics, and food. For a high-level Quetzal, you may need over 100 Tranquilizer Arrows and several hundred Narcotics. Prepare these in advance to avoid delays during the taming process. If you are playing solo, consider using a grappling hook and parachute to make the chase easier. In a tribe, coordinate with teammates to have one player control the mount while another shoots the Quetzal.

A specific example of taming a Quetzal would involve spotting a level 100 Quetzal in the Redwood Forest. You approach it with an Argentavis, dismount, and use a grappling hook to attach yourself to the Argentavis. As the Argentavis follows the Quetzal, you shoot it with Tranquilizer Arrows until it falls unconscious. You then land, build a taming pen around it, and feed it Kibble (Superior) while keeping it unconscious with Narcotics. After several hours, the Quetzal is tamed and ready to use.

In conclusion, taming a Quetzal requires careful planning, patience, and the right resources. By following these steps and avoiding common mistakes, you can successfully tame a Quetzal and gain a powerful ally in ARK: Survival Evolved.