What is the fastest way to tame a Pteranodon in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Taming a Pteranodon in ARK: Survival Evolved is one of the most efficient ways to gain early-game mobility, as this flying creature allows players to traverse the map quickly and avoid ground-based threats. The Pteranodon is a relatively easy creature to tame, but doing it quickly and efficiently requires preparation and understanding of the taming mechanics. Below is a detailed guide on the fastest way to tame a Pteranodon, covering mechanics, strategies, tips, and more.

The Pteranodon is a passive tame, meaning it does not need to be knocked unconscious. Instead, you must approach it carefully and feed it the right food. The preferred food for taming a Pteranodon is Kibble (Dodo Egg Kibble), which significantly speeds up the taming process. If Kibble is unavailable, Raw Mutton or Prime Meat are good alternatives, though they take longer. Regular Raw Meat can also be used but is the least efficient option. To maximize taming speed, always aim to use Kibble if possible.

Before attempting to tame a Pteranodon, gather the necessary resources. For Kibble, you will need Dodo Eggs, Rockarrot, Cooked Meat, Fiber, Mejoberries, and Waterskins or Water Jars to craft it. If using Raw Mutton or Prime Meat, hunt Ovis or other creatures that drop these resources. Additionally, bring Narcoberries or Narcotics to keep the Pteranodon unconscious if it becomes aggressive or if you accidentally hit it. A bola is also essential to immobilize the Pteranodon temporarily, as it can fly away if startled.

To begin taming, locate a Pteranodon near the beach or other open areas where they commonly spawn. Approach slowly and crouch to reduce your visibility. If the Pteranodon starts to fly away, use a bola to immobilize it for a short time. Once it is grounded, move close enough to feed it the preferred food. After feeding, wait for the taming bar to increase. Repeat this process until the taming is complete. Be cautious of nearby predators, as they can interrupt the process or kill the Pteranodon.

One common mistake is startling the Pteranodon before feeding it. Always crouch and approach from behind to minimize the chance of it flying away. Another mistake is not having enough food or resources prepared. Running out of Kibble or Raw Mutton mid-tame can significantly slow down the process. Additionally, avoid using weapons or tools near the Pteranodon, as accidental hits can cause it to become aggressive or fly away.

For advanced players, using a taming pen can make the process easier and safer. Build a small enclosure with walls and a roof to trap the Pteranodon, preventing it from escaping or being attacked by other creatures. This is especially useful in areas with high predator activity. Another optimization is using a taming calculator to determine the exact amount of food and time required for the tame. This helps you prepare the right amount of resources and avoid wasting time.

Resource management is crucial for efficient taming. Always prioritize gathering Kibble ingredients or high-quality meat before attempting to tame. If playing solo, focus on preparing everything in advance to avoid interruptions. In a tribe, assign roles to different members, such as one person gathering resources while another scouts for Pteranodons. This teamwork can significantly speed up the process.

In specific scenarios, such as taming a high-level Pteranodon, the process may take longer, but the benefits are worth it. High-level Pteranodons have better stats, making them more effective for travel and combat. Always aim to tame higher-level creatures when possible, as they provide greater long-term value.

In conclusion, taming a Pteranodon quickly in ARK: Survival Evolved requires preparation, patience, and careful execution. Use Kibble for the fastest taming, approach the creature cautiously, and consider building a taming pen for added safety. Avoid common mistakes like startling the Pteranodon or running out of resources. With these strategies, you can efficiently tame a Pteranodon and gain a valuable ally for exploration and survival.