How do I tame a high-level Quetzal in ARK: Survival Evolved?
Taming a high-level Quetzal in ARK: Survival Evolved is one of the most challenging tasks in the game due to its unique behavior and the resources required. The Quetzal is a large flying creature that does not land, making it difficult to approach and tame. However, with the right preparation and strategy, you can successfully tame one to use as a powerful flying mount for transportation and resource gathering.
To begin, you need to understand the mechanics of taming a Quetzal. Unlike most creatures, the Quetzal cannot be knocked out with traditional methods like tranq arrows or darts while it is flying. Instead, you need to immobilize it mid-air or force it to the ground. The most common method involves using another flying creature, such as an Argentavis or a Tapejara, to carry a player who can then shoot the Quetzal with tranquilizers. Alternatively, you can use a grappling hook and a parachute to hang from your flying mount and shoot the Quetzal from below. Once the Quetzal is unconscious, you can begin feeding it its preferred food, which is Kibble (Superior) for the fastest taming, followed by Raw Prime Meat or Raw Mutton.
Preparation is key to taming a Quetzal. You will need a high-level flying mount, preferably an Argentavis, due to its stamina and weight capacity. Equip your mount with a platform saddle if possible, as this allows you to carry additional resources like Narcotics and food. You will also need a long-range weapon, such as a Crossbow with Tranq Arrows or a Longneck Rifle with Tranquilizer Darts, to knock out the Quetzal. Bring plenty of Narcotics or Narcoberries to keep the Quetzal unconscious during the taming process. Additionally, carry a Grappling Hook and Parachute if you plan to use the hanging method.
The step-by-step strategy for taming a Quetzal involves first locating one in the wild. Quetzals are rare and can be found flying high above the map, often in the central or northern regions. Once you spot one, approach it carefully with your flying mount. If you are using the Argentavis method, have a second player ride the Argentavis while you hang from it using a Grappling Hook. This allows you to shoot the Quetzal without being detected. If you are solo, you can use the Tapejara method, where you switch seats to shoot the Quetzal while the Tapejara hovers. Aim for the head to maximize torpor gain and minimize damage.
As you shoot the Quetzal, keep an eye on its torpor level. Quetzals have high torpor, so it may take many shots to knock it out. Once it is unconscious, land nearby and place a large bear trap or metal foundation to prevent it from flying away when it wakes up. Begin feeding it Kibble or Raw Prime Meat, and monitor its torpor level to ensure it stays unconscious. Use Narcotics or Narcoberries as needed. The taming process can take a long time, especially for high-level Quetzals, so be patient and prepared to defend the area from predators.
Common mistakes to avoid include using low-level mounts with insufficient stamina, as chasing a Quetzal can drain your mount's stamina quickly. Another mistake is not bringing enough Narcotics, which can result in the Quetzal waking up before the taming is complete. Additionally, avoid shooting the Quetzal too many times in quick succession, as this can kill it. Instead, space out your shots to allow the torpor to build up gradually.
Advanced techniques include using a Quetzal platform saddle to build a mobile taming pen. This allows you to trap the Quetzal mid-air and tame it safely. You can also use a Griffin to dive and shoot the Quetzal, as the Griffin's speed makes it easier to chase and immobilize the Quetzal. Another optimization is to use a Taming Calculator to determine the exact amount of food and time required for the taming process, ensuring you are fully prepared.
Resource requirements for taming a high-level Quetzal include a significant amount of Kibble (Superior), Raw Prime Meat, or Raw Mutton, as well as Narcotics or Narcoberries. You will also need a high-level flying mount, a long-range weapon, and a Grappling Hook if using the hanging method. For tribes, coordinating with multiple players can make the process easier, as one player can focus on flying while another shoots the Quetzal. Solo players will need to rely on careful planning and execution, using methods like the Tapejara or Griffin to compensate for the lack of assistance.
In specific scenarios, such as taming a Quetzal in a dangerous area, it is crucial to clear the area of predators before beginning the taming process. Building a temporary base nearby with turrets or traps can help protect the unconscious Quetzal from threats. Additionally, using a Cryopod to store the tamed Quetzal can make transportation easier, especially if you are far from your main base.
In conclusion, taming a high-level Quetzal requires careful preparation, patience, and the right strategy. By understanding the mechanics, gathering the necessary resources, and avoiding common mistakes, you can successfully tame one of the most powerful flying creatures in ARK: Survival Evolved. Whether you are playing solo or with a tribe, mastering the art of Quetzal taming will greatly enhance your survival and progression in the game.
To begin, you need to understand the mechanics of taming a Quetzal. Unlike most creatures, the Quetzal cannot be knocked out with traditional methods like tranq arrows or darts while it is flying. Instead, you need to immobilize it mid-air or force it to the ground. The most common method involves using another flying creature, such as an Argentavis or a Tapejara, to carry a player who can then shoot the Quetzal with tranquilizers. Alternatively, you can use a grappling hook and a parachute to hang from your flying mount and shoot the Quetzal from below. Once the Quetzal is unconscious, you can begin feeding it its preferred food, which is Kibble (Superior) for the fastest taming, followed by Raw Prime Meat or Raw Mutton.
Preparation is key to taming a Quetzal. You will need a high-level flying mount, preferably an Argentavis, due to its stamina and weight capacity. Equip your mount with a platform saddle if possible, as this allows you to carry additional resources like Narcotics and food. You will also need a long-range weapon, such as a Crossbow with Tranq Arrows or a Longneck Rifle with Tranquilizer Darts, to knock out the Quetzal. Bring plenty of Narcotics or Narcoberries to keep the Quetzal unconscious during the taming process. Additionally, carry a Grappling Hook and Parachute if you plan to use the hanging method.
The step-by-step strategy for taming a Quetzal involves first locating one in the wild. Quetzals are rare and can be found flying high above the map, often in the central or northern regions. Once you spot one, approach it carefully with your flying mount. If you are using the Argentavis method, have a second player ride the Argentavis while you hang from it using a Grappling Hook. This allows you to shoot the Quetzal without being detected. If you are solo, you can use the Tapejara method, where you switch seats to shoot the Quetzal while the Tapejara hovers. Aim for the head to maximize torpor gain and minimize damage.
As you shoot the Quetzal, keep an eye on its torpor level. Quetzals have high torpor, so it may take many shots to knock it out. Once it is unconscious, land nearby and place a large bear trap or metal foundation to prevent it from flying away when it wakes up. Begin feeding it Kibble or Raw Prime Meat, and monitor its torpor level to ensure it stays unconscious. Use Narcotics or Narcoberries as needed. The taming process can take a long time, especially for high-level Quetzals, so be patient and prepared to defend the area from predators.
Common mistakes to avoid include using low-level mounts with insufficient stamina, as chasing a Quetzal can drain your mount's stamina quickly. Another mistake is not bringing enough Narcotics, which can result in the Quetzal waking up before the taming is complete. Additionally, avoid shooting the Quetzal too many times in quick succession, as this can kill it. Instead, space out your shots to allow the torpor to build up gradually.
Advanced techniques include using a Quetzal platform saddle to build a mobile taming pen. This allows you to trap the Quetzal mid-air and tame it safely. You can also use a Griffin to dive and shoot the Quetzal, as the Griffin's speed makes it easier to chase and immobilize the Quetzal. Another optimization is to use a Taming Calculator to determine the exact amount of food and time required for the taming process, ensuring you are fully prepared.
Resource requirements for taming a high-level Quetzal include a significant amount of Kibble (Superior), Raw Prime Meat, or Raw Mutton, as well as Narcotics or Narcoberries. You will also need a high-level flying mount, a long-range weapon, and a Grappling Hook if using the hanging method. For tribes, coordinating with multiple players can make the process easier, as one player can focus on flying while another shoots the Quetzal. Solo players will need to rely on careful planning and execution, using methods like the Tapejara or Griffin to compensate for the lack of assistance.
In specific scenarios, such as taming a Quetzal in a dangerous area, it is crucial to clear the area of predators before beginning the taming process. Building a temporary base nearby with turrets or traps can help protect the unconscious Quetzal from threats. Additionally, using a Cryopod to store the tamed Quetzal can make transportation easier, especially if you are far from your main base.
In conclusion, taming a high-level Quetzal requires careful preparation, patience, and the right strategy. By understanding the mechanics, gathering the necessary resources, and avoiding common mistakes, you can successfully tame one of the most powerful flying creatures in ARK: Survival Evolved. Whether you are playing solo or with a tribe, mastering the art of Quetzal taming will greatly enhance your survival and progression in the game.