How do I tame a creature that requires a specific type of bait in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Taming a creature that requires specific bait in ARK: Survival Evolved involves understanding the unique mechanics of the creature you are trying to tame. Some creatures, like the Kairuku, require fish to be tamed, while others, like the Ichthyosaurus, prefer rare flowers or mejoberries. The process can vary depending on whether the creature is passive or knockout tamed, but the key is to have the correct bait and follow the right steps.

First, you need to identify the creature and its taming method. For example, the Kairuku is a passive tame, meaning you do not need to knock it out. Instead, you must approach it carefully and feed it the required bait, which in this case is fish. To prepare, gather a sufficient amount of fish, such as raw fish meat or prime fish meat, which can be obtained by killing coelacanths or salmon in the water. It is also helpful to have a fishing rod and bait to catch fish more efficiently.

Once you have the bait, approach the Kairuku slowly. These creatures are skittish and will run away if you move too quickly or get too close. Crouch to reduce your visibility and move in a way that keeps you out of their direct line of sight. When you are close enough, open your inventory and transfer the fish to the Kairuku. It will eat the fish, and its taming progress will increase. Repeat this process until the taming is complete. Be patient, as passive taming can take time, especially if the creature is high level.

For creatures that require knockout taming, such as the Ichthyosaurus, the process is different. First, you need to render the creature unconscious. This can be done using tranquilizer arrows or darts. Aim for the head to maximize torpor gain and minimize damage. Once the Ichthyosaurus is unconscious, place the required bait, such as rare flowers or mejoberries, in its inventory. The creature will eat the bait over time, increasing its taming progress. Keep an eye on its torpor level and use narcotics or narcoberries to keep it unconscious if needed.

Preparation is key to successful taming. Make sure you have enough bait, narcotics, and other necessary resources before starting. For example, if you are taming a Kairuku, bring extra fish in case it takes longer than expected. If you are taming an Ichthyosaurus, have plenty of narcotics on hand to maintain its torpor. It is also a good idea to build a taming pen or trap to secure the creature and prevent it from escaping or being attacked by predators. A simple pen made of stone or wood can be very effective.

Common mistakes to avoid include approaching the creature too quickly, which can scare it away, or not having enough bait or narcotics, which can lead to a failed tame. Another mistake is not protecting the unconscious creature from other predators. Always be aware of your surroundings and be ready to defend the creature if necessary. Additionally, avoid using low-quality bait, as it will slow down the taming process and may not be as effective.

Advanced techniques can optimize the taming process. For example, using a taming calculator can help you determine the exact amount of bait and time required for each creature. This can save you time and resources by ensuring you are fully prepared. Another advanced technique is using a taming pen with a trapdoor or gate to easily capture and secure the creature. This can be especially useful for larger or more dangerous creatures.

Resource requirements vary depending on the creature and its level. Higher-level creatures will require more bait and take longer to tame. For example, a high-level Kairuku may need 20 or more fish to fully tame, while a low-level one may only need 10. Similarly, a high-level Ichthyosaurus may require more narcotics to keep it unconscious. Always gather extra resources to account for any unexpected delays or issues.

Tribe and solo considerations also play a role in taming. In a tribe, you can divide tasks, such as one person gathering bait while another builds the taming pen. This can make the process faster and more efficient. Solo players will need to manage all aspects of taming on their own, so preparation and planning are even more important. Having a well-organized inventory and a clear plan can help solo players succeed.

Specific examples and scenarios can illustrate the taming process. For instance, imagine you are taming a high-level Kairuku in the snowy biome. You gather a stack of raw fish meat and approach the creature carefully. You crouch and move slowly, keeping out of its line of sight. When you are close enough, you feed it the fish one by one, waiting for it to eat each piece. After several minutes, the Kairuku is fully tamed and ready to follow you. Another example is taming an Ichthyosaurus in the ocean. You use tranquilizer arrows to knock it out, then place rare flowers in its inventory. You monitor its torpor and use narcotics to keep it unconscious. After a while, the Ichthyosaurus is tamed and ready to ride.

In conclusion, taming a creature that requires specific bait in ARK: Survival Evolved involves careful preparation, patience, and attention to detail. Whether you are taming passively or using knockout methods, having the right bait and resources is essential. Avoid common mistakes, use advanced techniques to optimize the process, and consider tribe or solo dynamics. By following these steps and strategies, you can successfully tame a variety of creatures to aid in your survival and exploration.