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

Taming a Hesperornis in ARK: Survival Evolved is a unique and somewhat challenging process due to its specific requirements and behavior. The Hesperornis is a small, bird-like aquatic creature found near bodies of water, and it is known for its ability to dive and swim. Unlike many other creatures in ARK, the Hesperornis cannot be tamed through traditional knockout methods. Instead, it requires a passive taming approach, which involves feeding it specific food items without agitating it. Below is a detailed guide on how to tame a Hesperornis, including mechanics, strategies, and tips.

To begin, you need to locate a Hesperornis. These creatures are commonly found near rivers, lakes, or coastal areas. They are relatively small and resemble a mix between a duck and a penguin. When you spot one, approach it cautiously, as they are skittish and will flee if you get too close or make sudden movements. It is important to note that Hesperornis are not aggressive, but they will dive underwater to escape if they feel threatened. This makes them tricky to tame, especially in areas with deep water.

The first step in taming a Hesperornis is to gather the necessary resources. Hesperornis prefer fish as their taming food, and the type of fish you use will affect the taming efficiency. The best option is to use Prime Fish Meat, which can be obtained by killing Coelacanths or Sabertooth Salmon. Regular Fish Meat can also be used, but it will take longer and require more resources. To collect Prime Fish Meat, you will need a creature or tool that can harvest fish effectively, such as a Pelagornis, a Megalodon, or even a Metal Pick. Once you have the fish, keep it in your inventory or a preserving bin to prevent it from spoiling.

Next, you need to approach the Hesperornis carefully. Since it is a passive tame, you must avoid startling it. Crouch and move slowly toward the Hesperornis, ensuring you do not make any sudden movements. If the Hesperornis starts to swim away, you may need to follow it patiently or wait for it to return to the shore. Once you are close enough, open your inventory and drag the fish into the Hesperornis's inventory. It will consume the fish, and the taming bar will increase slightly. Repeat this process until the taming bar is full.

One important consideration is the Hesperornis's torpor. Unlike knockout tames, passive tames do not require you to manage torpor levels. However, the Hesperornis will only eat when it is hungry, so you may need to wait between feedings. This can make the taming process time-consuming, especially if you are using regular Fish Meat instead of Prime Fish Meat. To speed up the process, you can use a taming calculator to determine the exact number of fish required and plan accordingly.

A common mistake players make is trying to tame a Hesperornis in deep water. If the Hesperornis dives into deep water, it can be difficult to follow and feed it. To avoid this, try to lure the Hesperornis to shallow water or onto land before starting the taming process. You can also use a raft or a taming pen to trap the Hesperornis, making it easier to feed and preventing it from escaping. Building a small enclosure with walls or gates can help contain the Hesperornis while you tame it.

Advanced techniques for taming a Hesperornis include using a Bola to immobilize it temporarily. While the Hesperornis is not aggressive, a Bola can prevent it from running or swimming away, giving you more time to feed it. Additionally, using a Ghillie Suit can reduce your visibility, making it easier to approach the Hesperornis without startling it. If you are playing in a tribe, you can coordinate with other players to surround the Hesperornis and block its escape routes.

Resource management is crucial when taming a Hesperornis. Ensure you have enough fish and preserving methods to keep the meat fresh. If you are taming multiple Hesperornis or other creatures, prioritize Prime Fish Meat for the Hesperornis, as it provides the best taming efficiency. You may also want to bring extra fish in case the Hesperornis consumes more than expected.

In summary, taming a Hesperornis requires patience, preparation, and careful execution. Gather Prime Fish Meat, approach the Hesperornis slowly, and feed it without causing it to flee. Use shallow water or a taming pen to make the process easier, and consider using a Bola or Ghillie Suit for advanced strategies. Avoid deep water and sudden movements, and plan your resources carefully to ensure a successful tame. With these tips and strategies, you can add a Hesperornis to your collection of tamed creatures in ARK: Survival Evolved.