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

Taming a low-level Tapejara in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning and execution due to its unique behavior and flight mechanics. The Tapejara is a versatile flying creature that can carry multiple riders and has excellent maneuverability, making it a valuable asset for exploration and combat. However, taming one can be challenging, especially for beginners, as it is fast and can easily escape if not handled properly. Below is a detailed guide on how to tame a low-level Tapejara effectively.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics involved. The Tapejara is a passive tame, meaning you do not need to knock it out. Instead, you must approach it carefully and feed it its preferred food. The Tapejara prefers Superior Kibble, but if you donÔÇÖt have that, Raw Mutton or Raw Prime Meat are good alternatives. Lower-level Tapejaras can also be tamed with regular Raw Meat, though it will take longer. The key to passive taming is to avoid startling the creature, as it will fly away if it feels threatened. This means you need to approach slowly and avoid sudden movements.

To begin, gather the necessary resources. You will need the preferred taming food, such as Superior Kibble or Raw Mutton, as well as a few backup options like Raw Meat. Additionally, bring a few sets of armor, a ranged weapon like a Crossbow with Tranquilizer Arrows (in case things go wrong), and some Narcotics or Narcoberries to manage torpor if you accidentally aggro the Tapejara. ItÔÇÖs also a good idea to bring a flying mount like an Argentavis or Pteranodon to chase the Tapejara if it flees.

Next, locate a Tapejara. They are commonly found in mountainous or forested areas, such as the Redwood Forest or the mountains near the Volcano. Once you spot one, land your flying mount nearby and dismount. Approach the Tapejara slowly, crouching to reduce your visibility. If the Tapejara starts to fly away, use your flying mount to follow it and try to land nearby again. Patience is key here, as the Tapejara may take a few attempts to calm down.

When you are close enough, open your inventory and place the preferred food in the last slot of your hotbar. This makes it easier to feed the Tapejara quickly. Slowly approach the Tapejara from behind or the side, as approaching head-on may scare it. Once you are within range, press the appropriate key to feed it. After feeding, the Tapejara will gain a small amount of taming progress. However, it will also gain a temporary cooldown before it can be fed again. During this time, stay close but avoid getting too close, as this may cause it to flee.

One important tip is to build a taming pen. This is especially useful if you are taming solo or in a dangerous area. Construct a small enclosure with walls and a ceiling using Stone or Metal structures to prevent the Tapejara from escaping. Lure the Tapejara into the pen using a Bola or by carefully herding it. Once inside, close the entrance and proceed with the taming process. This method ensures the Tapejara cannot fly away, making the process much easier.

Common mistakes to avoid include approaching the Tapejara too quickly or from the front, which will scare it off. Additionally, failing to bring enough food or resources can result in a failed tame. Always prepare extra food and Narcotics in case the taming process takes longer than expected. Another mistake is attempting to tame a Tapejara in a dangerous area without proper protection. Always scout the area for predators and clear them out before starting the taming process.

For advanced techniques, consider using a Grappling Hook to immobilize the Tapejara temporarily. This can give you a few extra seconds to feed it before it flies away. Additionally, using a Taming Calculator can help you determine the exact amount of food and time required for the tame, allowing you to optimize your resources. If you are in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to herd the Tapejara into a taming pen or distract it while you feed it.

In conclusion, taming a low-level Tapejara requires patience, preparation, and careful execution. By gathering the right resources, building a taming pen, and approaching the Tapejara slowly, you can successfully tame this versatile flyer. Avoid common mistakes like startling the creature or taming in unsafe areas, and consider using advanced techniques like Grappling Hooks or tribe coordination for a smoother experience. With these strategies, youÔÇÖll have a loyal Tapejara to aid you in your ARK adventures.