How do I locate and harvest sap in the Extinction map of ARK: Survival Evolved?

In ARK: Survival Evolved, sap is a valuable resource used in crafting various items, including tree platforms, kibble, and certain recipes. On the Extinction map, sap is primarily harvested from specific trees found in the Sanctuary biome, which is the central area of the map. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to locate and harvest sap effectively in Extinction.

To begin, you need to locate the trees that produce sap. In Extinction, these are the redwood trees found in the Sanctuary biome. These trees are tall and have a distinct reddish-brown bark, making them easy to identify. Unlike other maps where sap is harvested from smaller trees using a tree sap tap, Extinction requires a different approach. The redwood trees in Sanctuary do not require a sap tap; instead, you can harvest sap directly from them using a tool or a dinosaur with harvesting capabilities.

The most efficient way to harvest sap is by using a metal pick or a chainsaw. A metal pick is more accessible early in the game, while a chainsaw is more efficient but requires advanced technology and resources to craft. When using a metal pick, simply approach the redwood tree and hit it with the pick. Each strike will yield a small amount of sap, along with some wood. If you have a chainsaw, it will harvest sap more quickly and in larger quantities, making it the preferred tool for this task.

Preparation is key when harvesting sap. Ensure you have enough inventory space to carry the sap, as it can add up quickly. Additionally, bring along a dinosaur with high weight capacity, such as a Paraceratherium or a Brontosaurus, to help carry the resources. This is especially important if you plan to harvest large amounts of sap in one trip. Having a flyer, such as an Argentavis or a Wyvern, can also be useful for quickly traveling between trees and your base.

When harvesting sap, be mindful of your surroundings. The Sanctuary biome is relatively safe, but there are still threats such as raptors, carnotaurus, and other predators. Having a tamed dinosaur for protection, such as a Rex or a Spino, can help deter these threats. If you are playing solo, itÔÇÖs a good idea to bring a strong mount to ensure your safety while harvesting.

One common mistake players make is not bringing enough tools or backup tools. Metal picks can break after extended use, so having a few extras in your inventory is a good idea. Additionally, players sometimes forget to check their inventory space, leading to wasted resources. Always make sure you have enough room before starting your harvest.

For advanced players, optimizing sap harvesting can involve using a Tek suit or other high-level equipment to increase efficiency. A Tek suit allows for faster movement and can help you cover more ground quickly. Additionally, using a high-level chainsaw with good durability can significantly increase your sap yield. If you are part of a tribe, coordinating with other members to cover more area and share resources can also be beneficial.

In terms of resource management, sap is relatively lightweight, so itÔÇÖs easy to carry large amounts. However, itÔÇÖs still a good idea to store excess sap in a preserving bin or refrigerator to prevent spoilage. This is especially important if you are harvesting sap for future use in crafting or kibble.

In summary, harvesting sap in Extinction involves locating redwood trees in the Sanctuary biome and using a metal pick or chainsaw to gather the resource. Preparation, including bringing the right tools, a strong mount, and ensuring inventory space, is crucial for efficient harvesting. Be mindful of potential threats and consider using advanced equipment or tribe coordination to optimize your efforts. By following these strategies, you can efficiently gather sap to support your crafting and survival needs in ARK: Survival Evolved.