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

Taming a Thylacoleo in ARK: Survival Evolved is a challenging but rewarding process. The Thylacoleo, often referred to as the "marsupial lion," is a powerful creature known for its climbing ability, high damage output, and versatility in both combat and transportation. To tame one, you need to follow a specific set of steps and prepare adequately to ensure success.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics involved. Thylacoleos are carnivorous creatures, so they require meat or kibble to tame. They are aggressive and will attack if you get too close, so you must knock them out before taming. Unlike some creatures, Thylacoleos cannot be passively tamed. They are typically found in the Redwood Biome, clinging to the sides of large trees. When you approach, they will leap down and attack, so you need to be ready to defend yourself or set up a trap to immobilize them.

To begin, gather the necessary resources. You will need a ranged weapon like a crossbow or longneck rifle, along with tranq arrows or tranquilizer darts. Narcotics or biotoxin are essential to keep the Thylacoleo unconscious during the taming process. You will also need a large amount of raw meat, prime meat, or exceptional kibble, which is the most effective taming food. Additionally, consider bringing armor, medical brews, and a shield to protect yourself during the encounter.

Next, locate a Thylacoleo. They are most commonly found in the Redwood Forest, perched on trees. Be cautious when approaching, as they will leap down and attack if they spot you. One effective strategy is to build a taming trap. A simple trap can be made using stone or metal foundations, doorframes, and ramps. Place the trap near a tree where a Thylacoleo is perched. Lure the Thylacoleo into the trap by getting its attention, then run up the ramp and through the doorframe. The Thylacoleo will follow you into the trap but will be unable to escape due to the doorframes.

Once the Thylacoleo is trapped, use your ranged weapon to shoot it with tranq arrows or darts. Aim for the head to maximize torpor gain. Be careful not to kill it, as Thylacoleos have relatively low health compared to their torpor. After it is unconscious, place the preferred taming food in its inventory. Exceptional kibble is the best option, as it speeds up the taming process significantly. If you donÔÇÖt have kibble, raw prime meat is the next best choice, followed by regular raw meat. Keep an eye on its torpor level and feed it narcotics or biotoxin as needed to keep it unconscious.

During the taming process, be aware of your surroundings. Other predators in the Redwood Biome, such as Carnotaurus or Raptors, may attack you or the unconscious Thylacoleo. Building a small enclosure around the trap can help protect you and the Thylacoleo from these threats. Additionally, consider bringing a tamed creature like a Rex or Carno to guard the area while you focus on taming.

One common mistake is underestimating the ThylacoleoÔÇÖs aggression and mobility. If you donÔÇÖt trap it properly, it can easily escape or kill you. Another mistake is not bringing enough narcotics or biotoxin, which can lead to the Thylacoleo waking up before the taming process is complete. Always bring extra supplies to avoid these issues.

For advanced players, consider using a taming calculator to determine the exact amount of food and narcotics needed for the ThylacoleoÔÇÖs level. This can help you optimize the taming process and reduce the risk of failure. Additionally, using a taming pen with a roof can prevent the Thylacoleo from leaping out of the trap.

If you are playing in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to make the process easier. One player can lure the Thylacoleo into the trap while another shoots it with tranq arrows. Tribe members can also help guard the area and gather additional resources if needed. Solo players should focus on preparation and caution, as taming a Thylacoleo alone can be risky.

In summary, taming a Thylacoleo requires careful planning, the right resources, and a well-constructed trap. By following these steps and avoiding common mistakes, you can successfully tame this powerful creature and add it to your arsenal of tamed dinosaurs. Whether you are playing solo or with a tribe, a Thylacoleo is a valuable asset for exploration, combat, and transportation in ARK: Survival Evolved.