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

Taming a high-level Shinehorn in ARK: Survival Evolved requires a combination of preparation, patience, and understanding of the creature's unique mechanics. Shinehorns are small, passive creatures found in the Aberration map, known for their bioluminescent glow and ability to provide light in dark environments. They are tamed passively, meaning you do not need to knock them out. Instead, you must carefully approach and feed them their preferred food. Below is a detailed guide to help you successfully tame a high-level Shinehorn.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics involved. Shinehorns are passive tames, which means they will not attack you, but they can be easily scared off if you move too quickly or make sudden movements. To tame one, you must approach it slowly and feed it its preferred food, which is Plant Species Z Seed. These seeds are found in the Aberration map, typically harvested from the Plant Species Z plants. You will need a significant amount of these seeds, especially for a high-level Shinehorn, as the taming process can take time and requires multiple feedings.

To begin, gather the necessary resources. You will need Plant Species Z Seeds, which can be harvested by hand or with a creature like a Therizinosaurus equipped with the delicate harvest setting. You may also want to bring a light pet, such as a Bulbdog or Glowtail, to help navigate the dark areas of Aberration where Shinehorns are commonly found. Additionally, wearing Ghillie Armor can help reduce your visibility and make it easier to approach the Shinehorn without startling it.

Once you have the seeds and are prepared, locate a Shinehorn. They are often found in the Bioluminescent and Fertile regions of Aberration. When you spot one, crouch and approach it slowly. Avoid running or making sudden movements, as this will cause the Shinehorn to flee. If it starts to run away, stop moving and wait for it to calm down before continuing your approach.

When you are close enough, open your inventory and place the Plant Species Z Seeds in the last slot of your hotbar. This will allow you to quickly feed the Shinehorn without fumbling through your inventory. Right-click (or the equivalent button on your platform) to feed the Shinehorn one seed at a time. After each feeding, the Shinehorn will have a cooldown period before it can be fed again. During this time, stay close but avoid moving too much to prevent scaring it.

High-level Shinehorns require more feedings and take longer to tame than lower-level ones. For example, a level 150 Shinehorn may require around 30 to 40 Plant Species Z Seeds and take approximately 30 to 40 minutes to tame, depending on the server settings. Be patient and monitor the taming progress by checking the creatureÔÇÖs inventory or using a taming calculator to estimate the remaining time and resources needed.

One common mistake to avoid is rushing the process. Shinehorns are easily frightened, and if you move too quickly or make sudden movements, they will run away, resetting the taming progress. Another mistake is not bringing enough Plant Species Z Seeds. Running out of seeds mid-tame can be frustrating, especially if you are far from a source of more seeds. Always bring extra seeds to account for any mistakes or delays.

Advanced techniques for taming a Shinehorn include using a taming pen. While Shinehorns are passive and do not require knockout taming, building a small enclosure can help prevent them from wandering too far or being attacked by other creatures. Use stone or metal structures to create a secure area, and lure the Shinehorn inside using the seeds. Once inside, close the gate to keep it contained while you complete the taming process.

Tribe and solo considerations are also important. If you are in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to gather resources and protect the area while you tame the Shinehorn. Solo players should focus on preparation and ensure they have enough supplies before attempting the tame. In both cases, having a light pet to illuminate the area and wearing Ghillie Armor can significantly improve your chances of success.

In summary, taming a high-level Shinehorn in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful preparation, patience, and attention to detail. Gather plenty of Plant Species Z Seeds, approach the Shinehorn slowly, and feed it one seed at a time while avoiding sudden movements. Use a taming pen if possible, and consider the benefits of Ghillie Armor and light pets. By following these steps and avoiding common mistakes, you can successfully tame a high-level Shinehorn and add a valuable companion to your team.