How do I tame a Quetzal without a flying mount in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Taming a Quetzal in ARK: Survival Evolved without a flying mount is one of the most challenging tasks in the game due to the Quetzal's ability to fly and its tendency to flee when attacked. However, with careful planning and execution, it is possible to tame one even without a flying mount. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to achieve this.

First, letÔÇÖs understand the mechanics involved. The Quetzal is a large flying creature that roams the skies, often at high altitudes. It cannot be passively tamed, meaning you must knock it out to tame it. The challenge lies in immobilizing it long enough to apply enough torpor to knock it out. Without a flying mount, youÔÇÖll need to rely on creative methods to ground the Quetzal or keep it in place while you work on taming it.

To begin, youÔÇÖll need to prepare the necessary resources. This includes a long-range weapon like a crossbow or a compound bow, plenty of tranq arrows or tranquilizer darts, and a large amount of narcotics or biotoxin to keep the Quetzal unconscious. YouÔÇÖll also need the QuetzalÔÇÖs preferred food, which is Kibble (Superior) for the fastest taming, but raw mutton, raw prime meat, or cooked lamb chop can also work. Additionally, bring a few parachutes, a grappling hook, and a lot of patience.

One of the most common strategies for taming a Quetzal without a flying mount involves using a grappling hook and a parachute. HereÔÇÖs how it works: First, locate a Quetzal flying at a manageable altitude. Once youÔÇÖve found one, use your grappling hook to attach yourself to a large, grounded creature like a Brontosaurus or a Paracer. This will allow you to be carried by the creature while you shoot at the Quetzal. Make sure the creature youÔÇÖre grappling onto is set to follow you, so it moves as you direct it.

Next, position yourself so that the Quetzal is within range of your tranq arrows or darts. Start shooting at the Quetzal, aiming for its head to maximize torpor. Be careful not to hit it too many times in quick succession, as this can cause it to flee. Instead, space out your shots to allow the torpor to build up gradually. If the Quetzal starts to fly away, use your parachute to glide after it and continue shooting. This method requires precise timing and positioning, so practice your aim and movement beforehand.

Another strategy involves building a taming trap on the ground. This requires a lot of preparation but can be very effective. Construct a large pen with high walls and a roof made of stone or metal to prevent the Quetzal from escaping. Use doorframes or gates to create an entrance that you can close once the Quetzal is inside. To lure the Quetzal into the trap, you can use a combination of grappling hooks and parachutes to guide it into the pen. Once itÔÇÖs inside, close the entrance and start shooting tranq arrows or darts to knock it out.

Important tips and considerations include always carrying extra supplies, such as additional tranq arrows, narcotics, and food, in case the taming process takes longer than expected. Keep an eye on the QuetzalÔÇÖs torpor level and make sure to administer narcotics or biotoxin as needed to keep it unconscious. Be prepared for other predators to interfere, so bring weapons or tamed creatures to defend yourself.

Common mistakes to avoid include shooting the Quetzal too aggressively, which can cause it to flee, and not having enough resources to keep it unconscious. Additionally, failing to secure the area can lead to other creatures attacking the Quetzal or you during the taming process.

Advanced techniques or optimizations include using a taming calculator to determine the exact amount of resources needed for the QuetzalÔÇÖs level. This can help you prepare more efficiently and avoid running out of supplies mid-tame. You can also use a taming pen with a roof to prevent the Quetzal from flying away, making the process smoother.

Resource requirements and preparation are crucial. YouÔÇÖll need a lot of tranq arrows or darts, narcotics or biotoxin, and the QuetzalÔÇÖs preferred food. Make sure to gather these resources in advance and store them in a safe location near where you plan to tame the Quetzal.

Tribe/solo considerations include whether youÔÇÖre attempting this alone or with a tribe. If youÔÇÖre solo, the process will be more challenging, but with careful planning, itÔÇÖs still achievable. If youÔÇÖre in a tribe, you can divide tasks, such as one person shooting tranq arrows while another administers narcotics, making the process faster and more efficient.

Specific examples and scenarios include taming a low-level Quetzal first to practice the mechanics before attempting a high-level one. This can help you get a feel for the process and identify any potential issues before committing to a more challenging tame.

In conclusion, taming a Quetzal without a flying mount in ARK: Survival Evolved is a difficult but rewarding task. By understanding the mechanics, preparing the necessary resources, and using creative strategies like grappling hooks and taming pens, you can successfully tame this majestic creature. Remember to be patient, stay prepared, and practice your aim to increase your chances of success.