How do I safely approach a Carnotaurus for taming in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Taming a Carnotaurus in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning and execution due to its aggressive nature. Carnotaurus is a medium-sized carnivore that can deal significant damage if not approached correctly. Below is a detailed guide on how to safely tame a Carnotaurus, covering mechanics, strategies, tips, and considerations.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics of taming a Carnotaurus. Carnotaurus is a knockout tame, meaning you must render it unconscious before feeding it the appropriate food. Its preferred taming foods are Kibble (made from Rex or Spino eggs), Raw Prime Meat, and Raw Meat. Kibble is the most effective, as it speeds up the taming process and increases the taming effectiveness, resulting in better stats for the tamed Carnotaurus. To knock it out, you will need to use tranquilizing tools such as a Slingshot, Bow with Tranq Arrows, or a Crossbow with Tranq Arrows. Tranquilizer Darts from a Longneck Rifle are also highly effective but require more advanced resources. Once the Carnotaurus is unconscious, you must feed it the preferred food while keeping its torpor (unconsciousness level) high enough to prevent it from waking up. This is done by using Narcotics or Narcoberries.

Now, letÔÇÖs go through the step-by-step process. First, gather the necessary resources. You will need a weapon for knocking it out, such as a Bow with Tranq Arrows, and plenty of Narcotics or Narcoberries to maintain its torpor. If you plan to use Kibble, prepare it in advance by cooking the appropriate recipe using Rex or Spino eggs. If Kibble is unavailable, gather Raw Prime Meat by hunting large creatures like Trikes or Stegos. Raw Meat is a fallback option but will take longer to tame. Next, locate a Carnotaurus. They are commonly found in open areas like grasslands or near mountains. Once you find one, clear the area of other predators to avoid interruptions during the taming process.

To knock out the Carnotaurus, start by shooting it with Tranq Arrows or Darts from a safe distance. Aim for the head to maximize torpor gain. Be prepared to dodge its attacks, as it is fast and aggressive. If you are solo, consider using natural terrain like rocks or cliffs to create distance and avoid its charges. Alternatively, you can build a taming pen using stone or metal structures to trap the Carnotaurus, making the process safer. Once it is unconscious, quickly place the preferred food in its inventory and monitor its torpor. Use Narcotics or Narcoberries to keep it asleep, especially if the taming process takes a long time.

Here are some important tips and considerations. Always carry extra resources, as the Carnotaurus may wake up if you run out of Narcotics. Use a taming calculator to estimate the amount of food and time required based on the CarnotaurusÔÇÖs level. Higher-level Carnotaurus will take longer to tame but will have better stats. Avoid taming in dangerous areas where other predators or players might interfere. If you are in a tribe, coordinate with teammates to gather resources and protect the taming area. Solo players should prioritize safety and prepare thoroughly before attempting the tame.

Common mistakes to avoid include underestimating the CarnotaurusÔÇÖs speed and damage. It can quickly close the distance and deal significant damage if you are not careful. Another mistake is not having enough Narcotics or food, which can lead to the Carnotaurus waking up and ruining the tame. Additionally, avoid taming in areas with high traffic from other players or aggressive creatures, as this increases the risk of losing the tame.

For advanced techniques, consider using a taming pen with a ramp or trapdoor to safely trap the Carnotaurus. This method minimizes the risk of being attacked and allows you to knock it out without taking damage. You can also use a Bola to immobilize the Carnotaurus temporarily, giving you time to shoot it with Tranq Arrows. If you have access to advanced tools, use Tranquilizer Darts for faster torpor gain and less damage to the creature.

Resource requirements include a Bow or Crossbow, Tranq Arrows or Darts, Narcotics or Narcoberries, and the preferred taming food. If you are using Kibble, ensure you have the necessary ingredients, including eggs, vegetables, and other resources. For solo players, prioritize gathering these resources before attempting the tame. Tribe members can divide tasks, such as one player gathering food while another prepares Narcotics.

In summary, taming a Carnotaurus requires preparation, patience, and careful execution. By following these steps and tips, you can safely tame a Carnotaurus to add a powerful carnivore to your team. Whether you are playing solo or in a tribe, mastering the taming process will greatly enhance your survival and progression in ARK: Survival Evolved.