What is the best way to tame a low-level Dung Beetle in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Taming a low-level Dung Beetle in ARK: Survival Evolved is a relatively straightforward process, but it requires careful preparation and execution. Dung Beetles are passive tames, meaning you do not need to knock them out. Instead, you must approach them carefully and feed them the right food to gain their trust. Below is a detailed guide on how to tame a Dung Beetle effectively, covering mechanics, strategies, tips, and more.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics of taming a Dung Beetle. Dung Beetles are small, non-aggressive creatures found in caves or near dung piles in certain areas. They are passive tames, so you do not need to use tranquilizers or weapons. Instead, you must approach them slowly and feed them their preferred food, which is feces. Dung Beetles can be fed Small Feces, Medium Feces, Large Feces, or Massive Feces. The type of feces you use affects the taming efficiency and speed. For example, Massive Feces will tame the Dung Beetle faster than Small Feces. However, since Dung Beetles are low-level, the difference in taming speed is less significant compared to higher-level creatures.

To begin taming a Dung Beetle, you need to gather the necessary resources. The primary resource is feces, which can be obtained from your tamed creatures or wild dinosaurs. If you do not have tamed creatures, you can follow wild herbivores like Parasaur or Trike and collect their droppings. It is recommended to gather at least 5-10 pieces of feces, depending on the size, to ensure you have enough for the taming process. Additionally, you should bring a set of armor, such as Hide or Chitin, to protect yourself from other cave creatures. A weapon like a spear or bow is also useful for defending yourself if needed.

Once you have the resources, locate a Dung Beetle. They are commonly found in caves, such as the Lower South Cave on The Island map. When you find one, approach it slowly and crouch to avoid startling it. Dung Beetles are easily spooked, so sudden movements or loud noises can cause them to flee. Once you are close enough, open your inventory and place the feces in the last slot of your hotbar. Then, feed the Dung Beetle by pressing the corresponding hotkey. After feeding, wait a few seconds before feeding it again. Repeat this process until the taming bar is full.

There are several important tips and considerations to keep in mind while taming a Dung Beetle. First, always approach from behind or the side to minimize the chance of scaring it. Second, avoid bringing tamed creatures into the cave, as they may accidentally attack the Dung Beetle or other cave creatures, causing chaos. Third, be aware of your surroundings, as caves are often filled with dangerous creatures like Titanoboas, Arthropluera, or Onyc. Having a weapon ready and staying alert can save you from unexpected attacks.

Common mistakes to avoid include moving too quickly or making sudden movements, which can scare the Dung Beetle and reset the taming process. Another mistake is not bringing enough feces, which can lead to an incomplete tame. Additionally, failing to protect yourself from other cave creatures can result in death or the loss of your taming progress. Always prioritize safety and preparation.

For advanced techniques or optimizations, consider using a taming pen. You can build a small enclosure using stone or metal structures to trap the Dung Beetle, making it easier to feed without it wandering off. This is especially useful in caves with limited space or multiple threats. Another optimization is using a Ghillie Suit, which reduces your visibility and makes it easier to approach the Dung Beetle without startling it.

Resource requirements for taming a Dung Beetle are minimal but essential. You need feces, armor, and a weapon. If you are playing solo, you may need to gather more resources to ensure you have enough for multiple attempts. In a tribe, you can divide tasks, such as one player gathering feces while another scouts for Dung Beetles. This teamwork can speed up the process and improve efficiency.

In specific scenarios, such as taming in a dangerous cave, it is crucial to clear the area of threats before attempting to tame. For example, in the Lower South Cave, you may encounter Titanoboas or Arthropluera. Use ranged weapons to eliminate these threats from a safe distance before focusing on the Dung Beetle. Additionally, if you are playing on a server with other players, be cautious of potential PvP encounters in caves. Always be prepared to defend yourself or retreat if necessary.

In conclusion, taming a low-level Dung Beetle in ARK: Survival Evolved requires patience, preparation, and careful execution. By gathering the necessary resources, approaching the Dung Beetle slowly, and protecting yourself from cave threats, you can successfully tame this useful creature. Dung Beetles are valuable for converting feces into oil and fertilizer, making them a great addition to any base. Whether you are playing solo or in a tribe, following these strategies will help you tame Dung Beetles efficiently and safely.