What are the best strategies for taming a high-level Chalicotherium in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Taming a high-level Chalicotherium in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning and execution due to its unique behavior and taming mechanics. The Chalicotherium is a large, aggressive herbivore that throws boulders at players and tames when provoked, making it a challenging creature to tame. However, its ability to gather berries, thatch, and fiber, as well as its utility in combat, makes it a valuable addition to any tribe or solo player's arsenal. Below is a detailed guide on how to tame a high-level Chalicotherium effectively.

The Chalicotherium is a knockout tame, meaning you must render it unconscious before feeding it its preferred food. Its preferred taming foods are Beer Jars and Rare Flowers, with Beer Jars being the most effective. To begin, gather the necessary resources for taming. You will need a long-range weapon like a crossbow or longneck rifle with tranq arrows or tranquilizer darts, narcotics or biotoxin to maintain its torpor, and a large supply of Beer Jars. Beer Jars are crafted in a Cooking Pot using Water, Sparkpowder, and Rare Flowers. Rare Flowers can be gathered from swamp plants or by using a Therizinosaurus or Moschops to harvest them efficiently.

Before engaging the Chalicotherium, prepare a taming pen. A taming pen is essential to prevent the creature from escaping or being attacked by other predators. Build a 4x4 stone or metal structure with doorframes or ramps to lure the Chalicotherium inside. Once it is trapped, you can safely knock it out without worrying about it running away or being interrupted by other creatures. Make sure the pen is large enough to accommodate the Chalicotherium's size and has a clear path for you to enter and exit.

When you encounter a high-level Chalicotherium, approach it cautiously. It will become aggressive if you get too close, so use your long-range weapon to start knocking it out from a safe distance. Aim for the head to maximize torpor gain. Be prepared to dodge its boulder throws, as they can deal significant damage. Once the Chalicotherium is unconscious, place the Beer Jars in its inventory and begin feeding it. Monitor its torpor level closely and administer narcotics or biotoxin as needed to keep it unconscious. The taming process can take a significant amount of time, especially for high-level Chalicotheriums, so be patient and ensure you have enough resources to sustain the tame.

One common mistake players make is underestimating the Chalicotherium's aggression and range. Its boulder throws can hit you from a considerable distance, so always maintain a safe range during the knockout phase. Another mistake is not preparing enough Beer Jars or narcotics, which can lead to the Chalicotherium waking up before the taming process is complete. Always bring extra resources to avoid this issue.

For advanced players, consider using a trap with a Tek Gate or Behemoth Gate for a more secure taming experience. These structures are more durable and can better contain the Chalicotherium. Additionally, using a taming calculator can help you determine the exact number of Beer Jars and narcotics required for the specific level of Chalicotherium you are taming. This can save time and resources by ensuring you are fully prepared.

If you are taming solo, prioritize safety and resource management. Bring a strong mount like a Rex or Spino to protect yourself from other predators while focusing on the Chalicotherium. In a tribe, assign roles to make the process smoother. One player can focus on knocking out the Chalicotherium, while another monitors torpor and administers narcotics. Teamwork can significantly reduce the risk of failure.

In summary, taming a high-level Chalicotherium requires preparation, patience, and careful execution. Build a secure taming pen, gather plenty of Beer Jars and narcotics, and use a long-range weapon to knock it out safely. Avoid common mistakes like underestimating its aggression or running out of resources. With the right strategy, you can successfully tame a high-level Chalicotherium and add a powerful ally to your team.