How do I tame a Pelagornis on the ocean in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Taming a Pelagornis in ARK: Survival Evolved, especially on the ocean, requires a specific approach due to its unique behavior and habitat. The Pelagornis is a bird-like creature that primarily spawns near water, often flying over the ocean or resting on the surface. It is a versatile tame, capable of flying, swimming, and even fishing, making it a valuable addition to your team. Below is a detailed guide on how to tame a Pelagornis, covering mechanics, strategies, and tips.

The Pelagornis is a passive tame, meaning you do not need to knock it out. Instead, you must approach it carefully and feed it the appropriate food. The preferred taming foods for Pelagornis are Raw Prime Fish Meat, Raw Fish Meat, and Regular Kibble. Regular Kibble is the most effective, as it speeds up the taming process significantly. To prepare for the tame, gather the necessary resources. If using Raw Fish Meat or Raw Prime Fish Meat, you will need a fishing rod or a creature like a Spino or Baryonyx to hunt fish. For Regular Kibble, you will need Dodo Eggs, Cooked Meat, Rockarrot, Mejoberries, Fiber, and Waterskins or a Water Jar to craft it.

Once you have the taming food, locate a Pelagornis. They are commonly found near coastlines, rivers, or flying over the ocean. When you spot one, approach it slowly and quietly. Pelagornis are skittish and will fly away if you get too close or make sudden movements. To avoid startling it, crouch and move slowly. If you are on a raft or in the water, be cautious of other predators like Megalodons or Piranhas that could disrupt the taming process.

When you are close enough, open your inventory and place the taming food in the last slot of your hotbar. This allows you to quickly access it. Approach the Pelagornis from behind or the side, as it is less likely to notice you. Once you are within range, feed it the food. After feeding, the Pelagornis will gain a small amount of taming progress. Wait for it to eat again, which may take a few moments. Repeat this process until the taming bar is full.

One important consideration is the Pelagornis's torpor. Unlike knockout tames, passive tames do not require you to manage torpor. However, if the Pelagornis is attacked or takes damage during the taming process, it may flee or become aggressive. To prevent this, clear the area of potential threats before starting the tame. If you are taming on the ocean, consider using a raft with a taming pen to keep the Pelagornis contained and safe from predators.

A common mistake is rushing the process. Pelagornis are easily spooked, and if you move too quickly or make noise, they will fly away. Patience is key. Another mistake is not having enough food. Pelagornis can take a significant amount of food to tame, especially at higher levels. Always bring extra food to avoid running out mid-tame. Additionally, avoid using weapons or tools near the Pelagornis, as the sound can scare it off.

For advanced techniques, consider using a Ghillie Suit to reduce your visibility and make it easier to approach the Pelagornis. If you are taming on the ocean, a raft with a taming pen can be highly effective. Build a small enclosure with walls and a roof to trap the Pelagornis once it lands. This prevents it from flying away and protects it from predators. You can also use a Bola to immobilize the Pelagornis temporarily, giving you more time to feed it.

Resource preparation is crucial. If using Raw Fish Meat or Raw Prime Fish Meat, ensure you have a way to gather it efficiently. A fishing rod with Leech Blood or Sap as bait works well, or you can use a Spino or Baryonyx to hunt fish. For Regular Kibble, gather the necessary ingredients in advance and craft it at a Cooking Pot or Industrial Cooker. Bring extra Narcotics or Stimulants in case you need to manage torpor for other creatures during the tame.

For tribe considerations, taming a Pelagornis can be easier with multiple players. One player can distract the Pelagornis while another feeds it, reducing the risk of it flying away. If you are playing solo, focus on stealth and patience. Use the environment to your advantage, such as hiding behind rocks or trees to avoid detection.

In specific scenarios, such as taming on the ocean, be prepared for unexpected challenges. The ocean is home to dangerous creatures like Megalodons and Leedsichthys, which can attack your raft or the Pelagornis. Always have a plan for escape or defense. If the Pelagornis flies away, track it using a flying mount like an Argentavis or Pteranodon. Once tamed, the Pelagornis can be used for fishing, transportation, and even combat, making it a valuable asset for both solo players and tribes.

In summary, taming a Pelagornis on the ocean requires careful preparation, patience, and strategy. Gather the necessary resources, approach the Pelagornis stealthily, and feed it the appropriate food. Avoid common mistakes like rushing or not having enough food, and use advanced techniques like Ghillie Suits or taming pens to improve your chances. With the right approach, you can successfully tame a Pelagornis and add a versatile creature to your team.