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

Taming a creature in ARK: Survival Evolved that requires specific food involves understanding the mechanics of the taming process, preparing the right resources, and executing a strategy tailored to the creature's behavior. The process can vary depending on whether the creature is tamed through knockout or passive methods. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide to help you succeed.

First, identify the creature you want to tame and its preferred food. For example, a Carnotaurus prefers raw meat, while a Triceratops prefers berries. Some creatures, like the Argentavis, have specific preferences for kibble, which is crafted using eggs, crops, and other ingredients. Kibble is often the most efficient taming food, as it speeds up the process and increases taming effectiveness. To prepare for taming, gather the necessary resources. For knockout taming, youÔÇÖll need weapons like a slingshot, bow with tranq arrows, or a longneck rifle with tranquilizer darts. YouÔÇÖll also need narcotics or narcoberries to keep the creature unconscious. For passive taming, ensure you have the correct food and approach the creature carefully to avoid startling it.

For knockout taming, start by locating the creature and assessing its surroundings. Clear the area of other predators to prevent interruptions. Build a taming pen if possible, using stone or metal structures to trap the creature safely. Once the creature is secured, use your weapon to knock it out. Aim for the head to maximize torpor gain. Monitor the creatureÔÇÖs torpor level, which decreases over time. Use narcotics or narcoberries to keep it unconscious. Once the creature is stable, place the preferred food in its inventory. The creature will eat the food over time, gradually increasing its taming progress. Be patient, as this process can take a while, especially for high-level creatures.

For passive taming, approach the creature slowly and avoid sudden movements. Some creatures, like the Equus or Otter, require you to feed them directly without knocking them out. Equip the preferred food in your last hotbar slot and approach the creature from behind or the side. Feed it the food when prompted, then back away to avoid aggro. Repeat this process until the creature is tamed. Passive taming can be more time-consuming but is often safer, as you donÔÇÖt need to worry about torpor management.

Important tips include always carrying extra resources, such as food, narcotics, and weapons, in case the taming process takes longer than expected. Use taming calculators to estimate the amount of food and time required for each creature. For example, a high-level Rex may require hundreds of raw meat and several hours to tame. Consider using kibble whenever possible, as it significantly reduces taming time and increases effectiveness. Additionally, always have a plan for protecting the unconscious creature. Other predators or hostile players can disrupt the taming process, so build a secure taming pen or have a tribe member guard the area.

Common mistakes to avoid include underestimating the amount of food or narcotics needed, failing to clear the area of threats, and not monitoring the creatureÔÇÖs torpor level. Running out of narcotics can cause the creature to wake up prematurely, ruining the taming process. Another mistake is using the wrong type of food, which can slow down taming or make it ineffective. Always double-check the creatureÔÇÖs preferred food before starting.

Advanced techniques include using taming pens with gates or traps to immobilize the creature safely. For example, a bear trap can hold a creature in place while you knock it out. You can also use taming multipliers on private servers to speed up the process. For passive taming, consider using a Ghillie Suit to reduce your visibility and avoid startling the creature. Additionally, some creatures, like the Therizinosaurus, have unique taming mechanics that require specific strategies, such as using rare flowers or honey.

Resource requirements vary depending on the creature and its level. High-level creatures require more food and resources, so always prepare in advance. For example, taming a high-level Argentavis may require 20-30 kibble, 50-100 narcotics, and several hours of time. Solo players should focus on smaller, easier-to-tame creatures first, while tribes can coordinate to tame larger, more dangerous creatures. For example, a tribe can assign roles, such as one player guarding the area while another manages torpor and food.

Specific examples include taming a Rex, which requires raw meat or kibble and a secure taming pen to prevent it from escaping or attacking. Another example is taming an Otter, which requires fish and a careful approach to avoid scaring it away. Each creature has unique challenges, so research their behavior and preferences before attempting to tame them.

In conclusion, taming creatures in ARK: Survival Evolved requires preparation, patience, and strategy. By understanding the mechanics, gathering the right resources, and avoiding common mistakes, you can successfully tame even the most challenging creatures. Whether youÔÇÖre playing solo or with a tribe, mastering the taming process is essential for building a powerful team of dinosaurs to aid in your survival and progression.