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

Taming a Carnotaurus, or Carno, in ARK: Survival Evolved is a rewarding process that can provide you with a strong mid-game carnivore for combat and transportation. Carnos are aggressive predators, so taming one requires careful preparation and execution. Below is a detailed guide on how to tame a Carno, covering mechanics, strategies, tips, and considerations.

To tame a Carno, you will need to knock it unconscious and then feed it its preferred food. Carnos are carnivores, so they prefer raw meat, raw prime meat, or kibble. Kibble is the most effective option, as it speeds up the taming process and yields better taming effectiveness. The best kibble for taming a Carno is made from Dodo Eggs, which are relatively easy to obtain early in the game. If you donÔÇÖt have kibble, raw prime meat is the next best option, followed by regular raw meat. However, using raw meat will take significantly longer and result in lower taming effectiveness.

The first step in taming a Carno is to prepare the necessary tools and resources. You will need a ranged weapon to knock it out, such as a slingshot, bow with tranq arrows, or crossbow with tranq arrows. Tranquilizer darts are even more effective but require a longneck rifle, which is more advanced. You will also need narcotics or biotoxin to keep the Carno unconscious during the taming process. Additionally, gather plenty of food for the Carno, as well as materials to build a taming pen if you plan to use one.

Once you are prepared, locate a Carno in the wild. Carnos are commonly found in open areas, such as grasslands and forests. They are fast and aggressive, so approach with caution. If you are playing solo, it is highly recommended to build a taming pen to trap the Carno. A simple taming pen can be made using stone or wood foundations and walls. Place a large bear trap inside the pen to immobilize the Carno once it enters. Lure the Carno into the pen by getting its attention and then running inside. Once trapped, close the pen and begin the knockout process.

Use your ranged weapon to shoot the Carno with tranq arrows or darts. Aim for the head to maximize torpor gain. Be careful not to kill the Carno, as its health is relatively low compared to its torpor. Monitor its torpor level and health as you shoot. Once the Carno is unconscious, quickly place the food in its inventory. Carnos have a high torpor drain rate, so you will need to monitor its torpor level and administer narcotics or biotoxin as needed to keep it unconscious.

While the Carno is taming, protect it from other predators. Carnos are often targeted by larger predators like Rexes or packs of raptors. If you are in a tribe, assign a tribe member to guard the Carno during the taming process. If you are solo, consider building a small shelter around the taming pen to protect the Carno from threats.

One common mistake to avoid is using low-quality food, such as raw meat, without preparing enough narcotics. This can result in a long taming process and low taming effectiveness. Another mistake is failing to protect the Carno from other predators, which can interrupt or ruin the taming process. Always be prepared to defend the Carno during taming.

For advanced players, consider using a taming calculator to determine the exact amount of food and narcotics needed for the Carno. This can help you optimize the taming process and ensure you have enough resources. Additionally, using a taming pen with a ramp can make it easier to trap the Carno without risking injury.

In summary, taming a Carno requires careful preparation, including gathering the right food, narcotics, and tools. Use a taming pen to trap the Carno safely, and monitor its torpor and health during the knockout process. Protect the Carno from other predators and administer narcotics as needed. By following these steps and avoiding common mistakes, you can successfully tame a Carno and add a powerful ally to your team.