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 instead of the usual meat or berries, while others, like the Achatina, prefer Sweet Vegetable Cake. The process can vary depending on whether the creature is tamed passively or through knockout methods. Below is a detailed guide to help you successfully tame creatures that require specific bait.

First, you need to identify the creature you want to tame and its preferred food. For example, the Kairuku, a penguin-like creature found in cold regions, prefers fish over meat. Similarly, the Achatina, a snail-like creature, requires Sweet Vegetable Cake, which is crafted using crops, sap, and honey. Once you know the required bait, gather the necessary resources. For fish, you can use a fishing rod or kill fish in the water. For Sweet Vegetable Cake, you need to farm crops like Longrass, Savoroot, Rockarrot, and Citronal, as well as collect sap from trees and honey from beehives.

Next, prepare the tools and resources needed for the taming process. If the creature requires knockout taming, you will need weapons like a slingshot, bow with tranq arrows, or a longneck rifle with tranquilizer darts. You will also need narcotics or narcoberries to keep the creature unconscious. For passive taming, ensure you have the correct bait and approach the creature carefully to avoid startling it. Some creatures, like the Achatina, can be tamed passively by placing the bait in the last slot of your hotbar and feeding it directly.

For knockout taming, start by rendering the creature unconscious. Use your chosen weapon to shoot it with tranq arrows or darts until its torpor level is high enough to knock it out. Be careful not to kill the creature, as some have low health. Once it is unconscious, place the required bait in its inventory and wait for it to eat. Monitor its torpor level and use narcotics or narcoberries to keep it unconscious. The taming effectiveness will increase as it consumes the bait, but be aware that taming effectiveness can drop if the creature takes damage or wakes up.

For passive taming, approach the creature slowly and avoid sudden movements. Some creatures, like the Kairuku, will not attack unless provoked. Place the bait in the last slot of your hotbar and feed it to the creature when prompted. Repeat this process until the taming bar is full. Passive taming can take longer, so be patient and avoid other predators that might attack the creature or you during the process.

Important tips and considerations include preparing a secure area for taming. Building a taming pen can help prevent the creature from escaping or being attacked by other predators. Use stone or metal structures for stronger creatures. Additionally, always carry extra resources like narcotics, bait, and weapons in case the taming process takes longer than expected. Using taming calculators or guides can help you determine the exact amount of bait and time required for each creature.

Common mistakes to avoid include using the wrong type of bait, which will not progress the taming process. Another mistake is not monitoring the creature's torpor level, which can cause it to wake up and reset the taming progress. Additionally, avoid taming in dangerous areas where other predators might interfere. Always scout the area and clear any threats before starting the taming process.

Advanced techniques and optimizations include using kibble, which is the most effective taming food for many creatures. Kibble is made from eggs, crops, and other resources and can significantly speed up the taming process. Another optimization is using taming pens with traps, such as bear traps or bola, to immobilize the creature and make the taming process easier. For creatures that require specific bait, like the Achatina, farming the necessary resources in advance can save time and ensure a smooth taming process.

Resource requirements and preparation vary depending on the creature. For example, taming a Kairuku requires fish, which can be obtained by fishing or killing fish in the water. Taming an Achatina requires Sweet Vegetable Cake, which needs crops, sap, and honey. Always gather extra resources to account for any mistakes or unexpected events during the taming process.

Tribe and solo considerations include coordinating with your tribe to gather resources and protect the taming area. In solo play, you will need to manage all aspects of the taming process yourself, so preparation is key. For tribes, assigning roles, such as one person gathering resources and another protecting the area, can make the process more efficient.

Specific examples and scenarios include taming a Kairuku in the cold regions. You will need to wear fur armor to protect against the cold and bring fish as bait. Approach the Kairuku slowly and feed it the fish when prompted. For taming an Achatina, you will need to craft Sweet Vegetable Cake using crops, sap, and honey. Place the cake in the last slot of your hotbar and feed it to the Achatina when prompted. Repeat this process until the taming bar is full.

By following these steps and tips, you can successfully tame creatures that require specific bait in ARK: Survival Evolved. Proper preparation, understanding the mechanics, and avoiding common mistakes will ensure a smooth and efficient taming process.