How do I tame a Tapejara in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Taming a Tapejara in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning and execution due to its unique behavior and flight mechanics. The Tapejara is a versatile flying creature known for its agility and ability to carry multiple passengers, making it a valuable asset for exploration and transportation. However, taming one can be challenging, especially for solo players, as it often flies in pairs or groups and is highly skittish. Below is a detailed guide on how to tame a Tapejara effectively.

The Tapejara is a passive tame, meaning you do not need to knock it out. Instead, you must approach it carefully and feed it its preferred food. The Tapejara prefers Superior Kibble, which is the most effective taming food, but it can also be tamed with Raw Mutton, Cooked Lamb Chop, or Raw Prime Meat. Superior Kibble is made from ingredients like Extra Large Eggs (e.g., from a Rex or Therizinosaurus), Sap, Fiber, and other resources. Preparing these items in advance will significantly speed up the taming process.

To begin, locate a Tapejara in the wild. They are commonly found in mountainous or forested areas, such as the Redwood Forest or the mountains on The Island map. Once you spot one, approach it slowly and quietly. Tapejaras are easily startled and will fly away if they detect you. Wearing Ghillie Armor can help reduce your visibility, making it easier to get close. Additionally, using a grappling hook or a flying mount like an Argentavis can help you reach Tapejaras that are perched on cliffs or trees.

When you are close enough, open your inventory and place the preferred food in the last slot of your hotbar. Crouch and approach the Tapejara from behind to minimize the chance of it fleeing. Once you are within range, feed it the food. After each feeding, the Tapejara will fly away briefly before landing again. You must repeat this process until the taming bar is full. Be patient, as this can take several minutes, especially if you are not using Superior Kibble.

One common mistake is trying to chase the Tapejara after it flies away. Instead, wait for it to land again and approach it carefully. Chasing it can cause it to fly too far or attract other predators, which can disrupt the taming process. Another mistake is not bringing enough food or narcotics. While the Tapejara does not require narcotics for taming, having some on hand can be useful if you accidentally aggro it or need to deal with other threats in the area.

For advanced techniques, consider building a taming trap. A simple trap can be made using stone or metal pillars and ceilings to create a small enclosure. Lure the Tapejara into the trap using a Bola or by leading it with a flying mount. Once inside, close the trap and proceed with the taming process. This method is particularly useful for solo players or those taming in dangerous areas.

Resource preparation is key to a successful tame. Ensure you have enough food, armor, and tools before attempting to tame a Tapejara. If you are in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to cover different roles, such as scouting, trapping, and feeding. Solo players should focus on stealth and patience, as rushing the process can lead to failure.

In summary, taming a Tapejara requires careful planning, patience, and the right resources. Use Superior Kibble for the fastest taming, approach the creature stealthily, and avoid chasing it. Building a taming trap can make the process easier, especially for solo players. With these strategies, you can successfully tame a Tapejara and add a powerful flying mount to your arsenal in ARK: Survival Evolved.