The Skies of ARK: Unveiling the First Flying Dino
The first rideable flying creature introduced to ARK: Survival Evolved, and therefore the first flying dino most players will encounter and tame, is the Pteranodon. This iconic creature is almost synonymous with early-game flight in ARK, offering a vital stepping stone for exploration and resource gathering. Its relatively easy tame and low-level saddle requirement make it the go-to option for anyone looking to take to the skies for the first time. The Pteranodon is a large pterosaur easily recognized by its long crest, sharp beak, and leathery, bat-like wings. Often called the “Ptera” or simply “Pt” by players, it’s a common sight soaring across the island, making it an easily identifiable target for early-game taming efforts.
The Importance of the Pteranodon in ARK
The Pteranodon holds a special place for ARK players. It’s not just the first flyer; it’s often the gateway to experiencing the game from a new perspective. Prior to taming a Ptera, players are confined to land-based traversal. While land creatures offer their own unique advantages, the ability to fly opens up new avenues for exploration, escape, and resource gathering. The speed and maneuverability of the Pteranodon allow you to quickly survey large areas, access hard-to-reach places, and get a bird’s-eye view of potential dangers. This early access to flight can significantly impact gameplay and progression, making the Pteranodon one of the most impactful early tames in the game.
Taming the Pteranodon
Taming a Pteranodon is generally straightforward, especially for new players. They are typically docile creatures that will flee when attacked, making a strategic approach crucial for successful taming. Players often need to incapacitate the Pteranodon using ranged weapons like bows with tranq arrows or slingshots with stones. Once unconscious, they require a specific food source to tame effectively, usually meat or fish. Because it’s a popular target, it’s also important to build a small trap to keep the dino in place.
The Pteranodon Saddle
To properly ride your Pteranodon, you’ll need a saddle. The Pteranodon Saddle becomes available at level 38, requiring 15 Engram points to unlock. This relatively low level requirement is a testament to its importance as an early-game flyer, making the Pteranodon accessible to new players relatively quickly. Crafting the saddle then provides you with your first access to the unparalleled freedom of flight in the game.
Flying in ARK: Beyond the Pteranodon
While the Pteranodon is the first and often most-used flyer, ARK boasts a diverse range of other flying creatures, each with its unique strengths and abilities. From the powerful Argentavis to the gigantic Quetzal, players eventually have access to a variety of aerial mounts that suit various roles within the game. Exploring the differences between these options, and discovering their specific utilities, is all part of the fun of ARK.
Beyond the First Flight
The discovery of the Pteranodon is just the beginning of your aviation journey in ARK: Survival Evolved. Eventually, you’ll encounter other, more powerful flying creatures, which you may choose to prioritize, or keep your trusty Pteranodon as a mainstay.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about ARK Flyers
Here are 15 frequently asked questions related to flying creatures in ARK: Survival Evolved:
1. What is the biggest flying creature in ARK?
The Quetzalcoatlus is the largest flying animal in ARK. This massive pterosaur dwarfs the Pteranodon and is a solitary, far-ranging creature found across the map.
2. Is the Quetzal a real dinosaur?
No. Quetzalcoatlus was a pterosaur, a type of flying reptile that lived during the Late Cretaceous period in North America. It was not a dinosaur, though it lived during the same period.
3. What is the fastest flying creature in ARK?
While the Pteranodon is extremely quick for short bursts, the Tapejara has a higher base speed overall. The Griffin is also very fast, and is considered the most well-rounded flyer in the game.
4. Can you fly in first person in ARK?
Yes, you can fly in first-person mode in ARK, offering a more immersive flying experience.
5. What is the annoying flying bird in ARK?
The Ichthyornis, often referred to as a seagull, is known for its incessant cries and tendency to steal food. It’s one of the more annoying creatures due to it’s disruptive behavior, although it generally flees when attacked.
6. Can a Pteranodon carry a Raptor?
No. The Pteranodon can only carry players, Dodos, and Dilophosaurus. The Argentavis is needed to carry larger creatures like Raptors.
7. Why won’t my Pteranodon fly?
The most likely reason is that your **Pteranodon** is encumbered. Check both its inventory and yours, removing excess weight so that it can take flight.
8. What is the small gliding dino in ARK?
The Archaeopteryx is a small, tree-dwelling bird-like dinosaur that can be used to glide while carrying a human. It’s more suited to gliding than flying, but a very useful creature nonetheless.
9. What is the dino that spits in ARK?
The Dilophosaurus is known for its ability to spit venom, which it uses to paralyze and blind its prey.
10. What is the giant bug in ARK?
The **Rhyniognatha** is a large bug-like creature resembling a combination of wasp, mantis, beetle, and possibly crab.
11. What dino eats bugs in ARK?
Anurognathid pterosaurs are known to consume insects at night, although other creatures also eat bugs.
12. What is a Terror Bird in ARK?
The Terror Bird, or Phorusrhacidae Rapidesultor, is a ferocious avian capable of high-speed sprints and brief hover-like leaps. It is a powerful, though ground-bound, mount.
13. What is the bird with a jet in ARK?
The **Tropeognathus** is a flyer from the Crystal Isles and Fjordur expansion maps known for its jet-like abilities.
14. What is the strongest Wyvern in ARK?
The term "Wyvern" is primarily used in the context of Monster Hunter rather than ARK. However, the most commonly regarded strongest Wyverns, by the Monster Hunter fandom, are the Akantor, Bazelgeuse, and Ukanlos. In ARK, Wyverns are generally comparable in power but have different elemental traits.
15. Is a Tapejara faster than a Pteranodon?
Yes, the **Tapejara** has a base speed of 700, while the **Pteranodon** has a base speed of 600. This makes the Tapejara a slightly faster flyer in sustained travel.
Conclusion
The Pteranodon is more than just the first flying dino in ARK; it’s a crucial part of the player experience. Its relatively easy tame, low saddle requirements, and impressive speed make it an invaluable tool for exploration and resource gathering. Understanding its role in the game is essential for any ARK survivor looking to take their adventure to new heights. While the Pteranodon is often the first step in aerial travel, the many other flyers offer different challenges and opportunities. From the towering Quetzalcoatlus to the speedy Tapejara, the skies of ARK are filled with diverse creatures that provide a wealth of options. This article provides a comprehensive guide to understanding the importance of the Pteranodon as well as highlighting other important flyers in ARK.