What is the best way to tame a high-level Otter in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Taming a high-level Otter in ARK: Survival Evolved requires a specific approach due to its unique taming mechanics. Otters are passive tames, meaning you do not need to knock them out. Instead, you must carefully approach them and feed them their preferred food. Otters are small, fast, and often found near water, making them tricky to tame without proper preparation. Below is a detailed guide to help you successfully tame a high-level Otter.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics involved. Otters are passive tames, so you cannot use tranquilizers or knockout methods. Instead, you must approach them slowly and feed them fish. The type of fish you use affects the taming efficiency. Raw fish meat, such as from Coelacanths or Sabertooth Salmon, is the standard option, but using higher-quality fish like Salmon or Prime Fish will significantly speed up the taming process. Otters also have a small hitbox, so you need to be precise when feeding them. Additionally, they are skittish and will flee if you move too quickly or make sudden movements.

To begin, gather the necessary resources. You will need a good supply of fish, preferably high-quality ones like Salmon or Prime Fish. You can catch these fish using a fishing rod or by killing them in the water. A crossbow or harpoon with grappling hooks can help you retrieve fish from deeper water. You may also want to bring a Bola to immobilize the Otter temporarily if it starts to run away. Having a taming pen or a trap can make the process easier, especially if you are taming solo.

Next, locate an Otter. They are commonly found near rivers, lakes, and other freshwater sources. Once you spot one, approach it slowly. Crouching reduces your visibility and noise, making it easier to get close without startling the Otter. If you have a Bola, use it to immobilize the Otter when you are within range. This will give you a few seconds to feed it. If you do not have a Bola, you will need to be very careful with your movements.

When you are close enough, open your inventory and drag the fish to the OtterÔÇÖs inventory. The Otter will eat the fish, and its taming bar will increase. Be patient, as high-level Otters require multiple feedings. After each feeding, the Otter will become skittish again, so you must repeat the process of approaching slowly and feeding it. Keep an eye on the OtterÔÇÖs taming progress and ensure you have enough fish to complete the tame.

Here are some important tips and considerations. First, always carry extra fish in case the Otter eats more than expected. Second, avoid taming near aggressive creatures, as they can interrupt the process or kill the Otter. Third, if you are playing in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to surround the Otter and prevent it from escaping. Fourth, consider using a taming pen to trap the Otter, making the process more manageable. Finally, use a spyglass to check the OtterÔÇÖs level before starting the tame, ensuring it is worth the effort.

Common mistakes to avoid include moving too quickly, which will scare the Otter away, and not bringing enough fish, which can lead to an incomplete tame. Another mistake is taming in dangerous areas where predators can attack you or the Otter. Always scout the area and clear any threats before starting the tame.

For advanced techniques, consider using a taming pen or trap. Build a small enclosure with doorframes or walls and lure the Otter inside. Once it is trapped, you can feed it without worrying about it running away. Another optimization is to use a high-quality fish like Prime Fish, which significantly reduces the taming time. If you are playing in a tribe, assign roles to your teammates, such as one person to feed the Otter and another to guard against predators.

Resource requirements include a good supply of fish, a Bola, and optionally a taming pen. If you are using a fishing rod, bring bait like Leech Blood or Sap. For solo players, a taming pen is highly recommended to make the process easier. Tribe players can divide tasks, such as one person gathering fish while another builds the pen.

In specific scenarios, such as taming in a dangerous area, prioritize safety. Clear the area of threats before starting the tame. If the Otter is near water, be cautious of aquatic predators like Piranhas or Sarcos. In cold biomes, bring warm clothing or a torch to avoid freezing while taming.

By following these steps and tips, you can successfully tame a high-level Otter in ARK: Survival Evolved. With patience and preparation, you will have a loyal companion that can help you gather resources and survive in the wild.