By Administrator Introduction
The vast and unforgiving world of ARK: Survival Evolved throws you into a struggle for survival on a primal island. You battle giant dinosaurs, hostile creatures, and the elements themselves. Among the many challenges, befriending and utilizing the diverse creatures of ARK can be a crucial strategy. One such creature, the adorable and surprisingly useful Otter, quickly becomes a valuable companion for any survivor. These charming little water-dwelling mammals offer a range of benefits, from resource gathering and warmth to simply being a loyal shoulder-mounted friend.
However, keeping an Otter happy and thriving in ARK requires more than just a friendly pat on the head. Understanding their dietary needs is paramount to their well-being and their ability to contribute to your survival. This article serves as your comprehensive guide to ARK Otter Food, providing you with the essential knowledge needed to feed your Otter effectively and maximize its usefulness in the challenging world of ARK: Survival Evolved. We’ll delve into the best food choices, explain how to prepare them, and provide essential tips for optimal Otter care, ensuring your little aquatic pal flourishes.
The Importance of a Well-Fed Otter
Otters, like all creatures in ARK, have specific statistics that determine their capabilities and survivability. Their health, stamina, and weight are all influenced by their diet. A poorly fed Otter will quickly become weak, suffer from reduced stamina, and won’t be able to perform tasks effectively. Furthermore, starvation leads to a decline in health, making them vulnerable to predators and the elements. A thriving, well-fed Otter, on the other hand, is a happy Otter, capable of thriving in its environment and assisting you in various ways.
In addition to the general benefits of health and effectiveness, food plays a crucial role in the taming process. When you first encounter an untamed Otter, the food you offer will determine how quickly and efficiently you can befriend it. Certain foods are far more effective than others in this initial bonding period. Making the right choice can significantly reduce the taming time, allowing you to reap the rewards of having an Otter as a companion sooner.
Finally, consider the long-term benefits. A well-fed Otter is a productive Otter. A happy, healthy, and adequately fed Otter will be a much more effective companion for resource gathering. Moreover, proper feeding is the cornerstone of any good care routine, and it can prevent complications arising from poor care. The goal is to keep your Otter in top condition.
Understanding Otter Dietary Preferences
Otters in ARK have specific dietary preferences, and understanding them is the key to their survival and happiness. They aren’t overly complex, but knowing the best foods can make a significant difference in your Otter’s overall condition.
Excellent Choices: The Best Food Options for Your Otter
Let’s get into the foods that will help keep your Otter happy, healthy, and eager to assist in your ARK adventures.
Raw Fish Meat: A Reliable Staple
Raw Fish Meat is a readily available and relatively easy-to-obtain food source for your Otter. You can acquire it through fishing, or by killing various fish species found in the game’s aquatic environments. The specific amount of health and food provided by Raw Fish Meat makes it a reliable food choice.
Obtaining Raw Fish Meat: Fishing is typically the most reliable way to gather Raw Fish Meat. Use a fishing rod and worms to catch a variety of fish. Alternatively, hunting the various fish types provides a consistent source.
Feeding Efficiency: Raw Fish Meat provides a decent amount of nourishment, although it isn’t the most efficient food option. It’s a good starting point and a staple for the Otter.
Additional Considerations: While Raw Fish Meat is a good, easy option, it is prone to spoiling. This is where proper management is essential. You can consider cooking it to increase spoilage time.
Cooked Fish Meat: A Step Up in Preservation
Cooked Fish Meat is another excellent option and a slight upgrade over Raw Fish Meat. The biggest advantage is the increased spoilage time, allowing you to store it for longer periods.
Obtaining Cooked Fish Meat: Simply cook Raw Fish Meat over a campfire, industrial grill, or other cooking device.
Feeding Efficiency: Cooked Fish Meat is similar to Raw Fish Meat in terms of hunger satisfaction, but the longer spoilage time makes it more convenient.
Additional Considerations: It’s crucial to balance convenience with efficiency. This is a good middle-ground option for players without the time to make more complex foods.
Exceptional Kibble: The Ultimate Otter Treat
When it comes to optimal Otter care, the best food in ARK by far is Exceptional Kibble. Kibble, in general, offers enhanced taming effectiveness, and increased health gains. Using it during the taming process will significantly speed up the process and give your Otter a head start.
Crafting Exceptional Kibble: Exceptional Kibble requires a specific recipe and the right crafting station. The exact ingredients will vary depending on the version of ARK you are playing, but typically include:
- Extra Large Egg (e.g., from a Spinosaur or Rex)
- Cooked Prime Meat or Cooked Prime Fish Meat
- Superior-quality vegetables (such as Savoroot)
- Fibers
- Water (in a waterskin or canteen)
- The specific recipe can usually be found on the ARK wiki
Feeding Effectiveness: Kibble provides the most efficient food, offering the fastest taming and highest health gains.
Why Kibble is King: Exceptional Kibble is the ideal choice for taming because it dramatically reduces the time it takes to befriend an Otter, and it provides a boost to your Otter’s overall health. This is the food of choice for keeping your Otter in the best condition.
The Less-Ideal Options: Feeding in a Pinch
While the options listed above are the best choices, you might find yourself without them at times. Here are some alternatives you can use in a pinch.
Raw Meat: A Quick Fix
Raw Meat, obtained by killing land-based creatures, is the most readily available food source, but it’s not the best choice for your Otter.
Availability: Easily obtained by killing various dinosaurs and creatures on land.
Feeding Efficiency: Less efficient than Raw Fish Meat, and has shorter spoilage times.
Considerations: Use this only as a last resort. Always keep a supply of better food options.
Cooked Meat: An Improvement (Slightly)
Cooked Meat improves on Raw Meat in several ways but is still not ideal.
Availability: Obtained by cooking Raw Meat over a campfire.
Feeding Efficiency: The same as Raw Meat, but with a longer spoilage time.
Considerations: Only use this if you have no other options, as there are better choices available.
Tips for Optimal Otter Feeding and Care
Beyond choosing the right food, there are other crucial aspects of Otter care.
Utilizing a Feeding Trough: Automation for Your Otter
Using a feeding trough is a huge advantage for any survivor with an Otter.
How It Works: Place the feeding trough near your Otter. Fill the trough with the food of your choice. The Otter will automatically consume the food in the trough when hungry.
Advantages: Saves time, prevents starvation when you are away, and allows you to automate the feeding process.
Managing the Trough: Regularly replenish the food in the trough and consider the spoilage times of the food inside.
Food Storage and Spoilage Management: Avoiding Wastage
Proper food storage is vital in ARK.
Tips to Prevent Spoilage: Utilize refrigerators, preserving bins, and other storage options to extend the life of your food. Be sure to have a refrigerator to prevent food spoilage.
Handling Spoiled Food: Spoiled food can be toxic. Never let your Otter consume spoiled food. Dispose of it responsibly.
Keeping Your Otter Healthy and Happy
Ultimately, the goal is to provide the best possible care.
The Importance of Food: Proper food is the foundation of good Otter health.
Other Considerations: Make sure your Otter has a safe and secure environment. Protect it from predators and extreme temperatures.
The Benefits of Happiness: A healthy and happy Otter is a more productive and rewarding companion.
Conclusion
Mastering ARK Otter Food is a critical step towards thriving in the world of ARK: Survival Evolved. By understanding your Otter’s dietary needs, and utilizing the best food options – namely Raw Fish Meat, Cooked Fish Meat and particularly Exceptional Kibble – you can ensure your aquatic companion thrives. Remember to always keep your Otter happy and healthy, for its loyalty and unique abilities will make it a powerful ally.
Consider your Otter’s needs. Provide a safe environment, and keep a regular supply of food. Implementing these tips will guarantee a happy and thriving companion. So, go forth and keep your Otter well-fed and enjoying the ARK experience!
Further Reading
For more in-depth information, consult the ARK: Survival Evolved wiki and other online resources. Good luck, and happy surviving!
