How do I tame a high-level Zombie Ichthyornis in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Taming a high-level Zombie Ichthyornis in ARK: Survival Evolved requires a specific approach due to its unique behavior and taming mechanics. The Zombie Ichthyornis is a special variant of the Ichthyornis, found during the Fear Evolved event, and it shares many of the same taming mechanics as its regular counterpart. However, its undead nature and aggressive behavior make the process more challenging. Below is a detailed guide to help you successfully tame a high-level Zombie Ichthyornis.

The Zombie Ichthyornis is a passive tame, meaning you do not need to knock it out. Instead, you must feed it the correct food while avoiding its attacks. The preferred food for taming a Zombie Ichthyornis is Spoiled Meat or Raw Fish Meat. Spoiled Meat is generally easier to obtain in large quantities, making it the more practical choice. You will need a significant amount of Spoiled Meat, especially for a high-level Zombie Ichthyornis, as the taming process can take a while.

To begin, gather the necessary resources. You will need at least 50-100 Spoiled Meat, depending on the level of the Zombie Ichthyornis. Spoiled Meat can be obtained by letting Raw Meat spoil in your inventory or by using a preserving bin. Additionally, you will need a good set of armor, such as Hide or Chitin, to protect yourself from its attacks. A crossbow or longneck rifle with tranq darts can be useful for dealing with any nearby threats, but it is not required for the taming process itself.

Once you have your resources ready, locate a Zombie Ichthyornis. These creatures are typically found near water sources, such as rivers or beaches. Approach the Zombie Ichthyornis carefully, as it will become aggressive if you get too close. When you are within range, crouch and move slowly to avoid startling it. The Zombie Ichthyornis will periodically swoop down to attack, so be prepared to dodge its attacks.

To tame the Zombie Ichthyornis, you need to feed it Spoiled Meat. Place the Spoiled Meat in the last slot of your hotbar for easy access. When the Zombie Ichthyornis is not attacking, approach it slowly and press the use key to feed it. Each feeding will increase its taming progress, but you must wait for its hunger to drop before feeding it again. This process can take some time, so patience is key.

One important tip is to stay close to the Zombie Ichthyornis but not too close. If you move too far away, it may lose interest and fly off. However, if you get too close, it will attack you. Maintaining the right distance is crucial for a successful tame. Additionally, be aware of your surroundings. Other predators or aggressive creatures in the area can disrupt the taming process or even kill the Zombie Ichthyornis. Clear the area of threats before attempting to tame it.

A common mistake is not having enough Spoiled Meat. High-level Zombie Ichthyornis require a lot of food, and running out mid-tame can be frustrating. Always bring extra Spoiled Meat to ensure you have enough. Another mistake is not paying attention to the Zombie Ichthyornis's behavior. If it starts to fly away, you need to follow it quickly to continue the taming process. Losing sight of it can result in a failed tame.

For advanced players, using a taming pen can make the process easier. Build a small enclosure with walls and a roof to trap the Zombie Ichthyornis. This will prevent it from flying away and make it easier to feed. However, be careful not to trap yourself inside with it, as it can still attack you. Alternatively, you can use a grappling hook to anchor yourself in place while feeding the Zombie Ichthyornis, reducing the risk of being knocked back by its attacks.

In terms of tribe or solo considerations, taming a Zombie Ichthyornis is generally easier with a tribe. Having multiple players can help distract the Zombie Ichthyornis or deal with nearby threats while one player focuses on feeding it. However, it is still possible to tame one solo with the right preparation and patience.

In conclusion, taming a high-level Zombie Ichthyornis in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning and execution. Gather plenty of Spoiled Meat, approach the creature cautiously, and maintain the right distance to avoid its attacks. Be patient and persistent, and you will eventually tame this unique and useful creature. With its ability to retrieve fish and other resources, a tamed Zombie Ichthyornis can be a valuable addition to your team.