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

Taming a high-level Carno in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, preparation, and execution. The Carnotaurus, or Carno, is a medium-sized carnivore that can be a valuable asset for combat, transportation, and resource gathering. Below is a detailed guide on how to tame a high-level Carno effectively, covering mechanics, strategies, tips, and considerations.

To begin, you need to understand the taming mechanics for the Carno. Carnos are aggressive creatures that must be knocked out before taming. This means you will need to use tranquilizing methods to render the Carno unconscious. Once it is unconscious, you can feed it its preferred food to complete the taming process. The Carno prefers raw meat, but using kibble or prime meat will significantly speed up the taming process and improve the taming effectiveness, resulting in a stronger tamed Carno.

Step-by-step instructions for taming a Carno are as follows. First, gather the necessary resources. You will need a weapon to knock out the Carno, such as a slingshot, bow with tranq arrows, or a crossbow with tranq arrows. Higher-level Carnos will require more tranq arrows or darts, so prepare accordingly. You will also need narcotics or narcoberries to keep the Carno unconscious during the taming process. For food, gather raw meat, prime meat, or kibble. Kibble made from Rex eggs is the most effective but requires advanced preparation. Additionally, bring armor, weapons, and tools to protect yourself from other predators or the Carno itself.

Next, locate a high-level Carno. Carnos are commonly found in open areas such as grasslands, forests, and mountains. Once you find a suitable Carno, clear the area of other predators to avoid interruptions during the taming process. If you are playing solo, consider building a taming pen to trap the Carno. A simple pen can be made with stone or wood foundations and walls. Lure the Carno into the pen using a ranged weapon or by running in and out of the pen. Once the Carno is trapped, close the gate or door to prevent it from escaping.

Now, begin knocking out the Carno. Use your tranq arrows or darts to shoot the Carno in the head for maximum torpor. Be careful not to kill the Carno, as its health will drop as you apply torpor. Monitor its health and torpor levels closely. If its health gets too low, wait for it to regenerate before continuing to shoot. Once the Carno is unconscious, quickly place the food in its inventory. Raw meat is the easiest option, but prime meat or kibble will yield better results. Keep an eye on its torpor level and feed it narcotics or narcoberries as needed to keep it unconscious.

Important tips and considerations include always being prepared for unexpected threats. Other predators or players may interfere with your taming process, so stay alert. If you are playing in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to guard the area and assist with the taming. Solo players should prioritize safety and avoid taming in dangerous areas. Additionally, consider using a taming calculator to determine the exact amount of food and narcotics required for the Carno's level. This will help you avoid running out of resources mid-tame.

Common mistakes to avoid include underestimating the Carno's aggression and speed. Carnos are fast and can quickly close the distance, so maintain a safe distance while shooting tranq arrows. Another mistake is not preparing enough narcotics or food, which can lead to the Carno waking up or a low taming effectiveness. Always bring extra resources to account for any mistakes or delays.

Advanced techniques and optimizations involve using a taming pen with a ramp or trapdoor to make the process easier. This allows you to safely knock out the Carno without it escaping or attacking you. Additionally, using kibble or prime meat will significantly reduce the taming time and improve the Carno's stats. If you have access to a flying mount, such as an Argentavis, you can carry prime meat from nearby kills to the Carno, ensuring a steady supply of high-quality food.

Resource requirements and preparation include gathering tranq arrows or darts, narcotics, and food. For a high-level Carno, you may need 20-30 tranq arrows or darts, 50-100 narcotics, and 50-100 raw meat or 10-20 prime meat. Kibble will require fewer resources but more preparation. Ensure you have enough armor, weapons, and tools to protect yourself and handle any threats.

Tribe and solo considerations differ slightly. In a tribe, you can divide tasks such as guarding, gathering resources, and monitoring the Carno's torpor. Solo players must handle everything themselves, so preparation and caution are key. Always have an escape plan in case things go wrong.

Specific examples and scenarios include taming a level 150 Carno in the Redwood Forest. This area is dangerous due to predators like Raptors and Thylacoleos, so clear the area before starting. Use a taming pen to trap the Carno and knock it out with tranq arrows. Feed it prime meat from nearby kills to maximize taming effectiveness. Monitor its torpor and health closely, and be ready to defend against any threats.

In conclusion, taming a high-level Carno in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful preparation, execution, and vigilance. By following these steps and tips, you can successfully tame a powerful Carno to aid in your survival and progression. Always be prepared for unexpected challenges and prioritize safety to ensure a successful tame.