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

Taming a Glowtail in ARK: Survival Evolved is a unique and rewarding process, as these small, bioluminescent lizards are not only useful for their light but also for their ability to produce glow sticks and glow paste. Glowtails are passive tames, meaning you do not need to knock them out or use tranquilizers. Instead, you must approach them carefully and feed them their preferred food to gain their trust. Below is a detailed guide on how to tame a Glowtail, including mechanics, strategies, and tips to ensure success.

The first step in taming a Glowtail is to locate one. Glowtails are typically found in the Aberration map, specifically in the Bioluminescent and Fertile regions. They are small, glowing creatures that are often seen climbing on walls or ceilings. Once you spot a Glowtail, you need to prepare the right food. Glowtails prefer Plant Species Z Seed as their primary taming food. These seeds can be harvested from Plant Species Z plants, which are found in the Aberration map. You will need a decent amount of these seeds, as the taming process can take some time depending on the level of the Glowtail.

Before approaching the Glowtail, it is important to ensure you are not carrying any aggressive creatures or wearing armor that might scare it. Glowtails are skittish and will flee if they sense danger. It is recommended to wear Ghillie Armor, as it reduces your visibility and makes it easier to approach without startling the creature. Additionally, you should clear the area of any hostile creatures that might interfere with the taming process. Building a small taming pen or using natural terrain to block the Glowtail's escape path can also be helpful.

Once you are ready, approach the Glowtail slowly and crouch to minimize your movement. When you are close enough, open your inventory and place the Plant Species Z Seed in the last slot of your hotbar. This allows you to quickly access the food when needed. To feed the Glowtail, simply walk up to it and press the corresponding key to offer the seed. Be patient, as the Glowtail may take a moment to accept the food. After it eats, it will gain a small amount of taming progress, and you will need to wait for its hunger to reset before feeding it again. This process repeats until the Glowtail is fully tamed.

One important consideration during the taming process is the Glowtail's torpor. Unlike knockout tames, passive tames do not require you to monitor torpor levels. However, you must ensure the Glowtail does not take damage or get scared away, as this will reset its taming progress. To avoid this, stay close but not too close, and avoid sudden movements. If the Glowtail starts to flee, stop chasing it and wait for it to calm down before attempting to feed it again.

Resource preparation is key to a successful tame. In addition to Plant Species Z Seeds, you should bring extra food and water for yourself, as the taming process can take a while. It is also a good idea to bring a few stimulants or energy brews in case you need to sprint or climb to keep up with the Glowtail. If you are playing in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to ensure someone is always ready to feed the Glowtail while others keep the area safe from predators.

Common mistakes to avoid include approaching the Glowtail too quickly, wearing loud armor, or carrying aggressive creatures. These actions will scare the Glowtail and cause it to flee, wasting your time and resources. Another mistake is not bringing enough Plant Species Z Seeds. Always gather more than you think you will need, as higher-level Glowtails require more food to tame. Additionally, avoid taming in dangerous areas where predators like Ravagers or Raptors might attack.

Advanced techniques for taming Glowtails include using a taming pen or trap. You can build a small enclosure with doorframes or walls to guide the Glowtail into a confined space, making it easier to feed without it running away. Another optimization is to use a taming calculator to determine the exact number of Plant Species Z Seeds required for the Glowtail's level. This helps you prepare the right amount of resources and avoid running out mid-tame.

In solo play, taming a Glowtail requires patience and careful planning. You will need to manage your resources and time effectively, as you will be responsible for both feeding the Glowtail and protecting it from threats. In a tribe, you can divide tasks among members, with one person focusing on feeding while others guard the area or gather additional resources. This teamwork can significantly speed up the taming process and reduce the risk of failure.

In conclusion, taming a Glowtail in ARK: Survival Evolved involves careful preparation, patience, and attention to detail. By gathering the right resources, approaching the creature cautiously, and avoiding common mistakes, you can successfully tame a Glowtail and add its unique abilities to your arsenal. Whether you are playing solo or in a tribe, these strategies will help you master the art of taming and make the most of this glowing companion.