What Gives the Most Fur in ARK: A Survivor’s Guide
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Fur in ARK: Survival Evolved is crucial for surviving the frigid environments of the Island, Scorched Earth, and other maps. The best creature for amassing large quantities of Pelt (Fur) is debatably the Andrewsarchus, especially when used with a Metal Hatchet rider, as it’s capable of quickly dispatching large numbers of Pelt-bearing creatures efficiently and gathering the most fur per kill. However, other excellent options include the Direwolf and Fenrir. A Metal Hatchet used directly on a corpse also yields impressive results, making it a valuable tool even without a tamed creature. Choosing the right combination of creature and tool is key to maximizing your Pelt harvesting efficiency.
Top Pelt Gathering Creatures and Tools
While the Andrewsarchus currently holds the top spot for most fur gathered, several other creatures and tools are extremely effective for accumulating Pelt in ARK. Consider your current game stage, map, and available resources when selecting your method.
- Andrewsarchus: This creature excels at mobility and can be equipped with a rider wielding a Metal Hatchet, making it a powerhouse for quickly clearing areas of Pelt animals.
- Fenrir: The Fenrir’s natural harvesting ability is impressive. Its damage and speed make it a superb choice for quickly dispatching and gathering Pelt from various creatures. This is the next best choice after the Andrewsarchus, with a metal hatchet, and is superior without it.
- Direwolf: A long-time favorite, the Direwolf is easy to obtain and breed, offering a consistent and reliable source of Pelt. Their pack bonus further enhances their damage output.
- Metal Hatchet: Don’t underestimate the power of a good old-fashioned tool. A Metal Hatchet, especially one of high quality, can yield surprising amounts of Pelt when used on corpses. It is a great option early on, and as an added source of Pelt to animals dispatched by other means.
- Sabertooth: As a starter option, it is also worth considering taming a Saber, which also gives higher rates of fur on kills.
Target Animals for Pelt Harvesting
Knowing which creatures to hunt is just as important as choosing the right harvesting tool. Here are some of the best Pelt sources in ARK:
- Mammoths: These large, woolly creatures are a primary source of Pelt. Look for them in snow biomes.
- Woolly Rhinos: These aggressive creatures provide a substantial amount of Pelt. Be prepared for a fight.
- Direwolves: Ironically, hunting Direwolves is a good way to obtain Pelt, especially if you don’t have one tamed.
- Megatherium: While primarily known for chitin farming, Megatherium also yields a decent amount of Pelt.
- Moose/Megaloceros: Another reliable source of Pelt, found in colder regions.
Optimizing Your Pelt Harvest
To truly maximize your Pelt gathering efforts, consider these tips:
- Level up: Invest points into the melee damage stat of your harvesting creature to increase the amount of resources gathered.
- Use a good Saddle: A higher quality saddle can offer armor, making your creature more resilient against damage.
- Location, Location, Location: Focus your hunts in areas with a high concentration of Pelt-bearing creatures.
- Bring a Tribe Mate: Having a friend to help clear out enemies or carry extra resources can significantly speed up the process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Fur in ARK
What is Fur used for in ARK?
Fur (Pelt) is a crucial resource primarily used to craft Fur Armor, which provides excellent insulation against cold temperatures. It’s essential for surviving in snow biomes, caves, and other frigid environments. Pelt is also used in the crafting of various other items, including certain weapons, tools, and structures.
How do I stay warm in ARK without Fur Armor?
While Fur Armor is the most effective way to stay warm, other methods include: standing near a campfire or standing torch, consuming warming foods like soups or stews, and seeking shelter indoors. Taming and riding creatures like a Dimetrodon can also provide warmth. Additionally, carrying a Torch can provide a small amount of insulation.
Where can I find Mammoths in ARK?
Mammoths are commonly found in the snow biomes of maps like The Island, Ragnarok, and Extinction. Look for them grazing in open areas or wandering near forests. Be cautious, as they can be aggressive if provoked.
What is the best way to tame a Direwolf?
Direwolves are tamed non-violently, so you must feed it its preferred food. The best food to use is Superior Kibble but raw mutton, raw prime meat and raw meat are viable options. They are found in snow biomes, often in packs. Approach cautiously, as they will attack if they detect you. Clear out the other wolves first and then feed the one you wish to tame until the taming bar is full.
Can I breed Direwolves for better Pelt gathering?
Yes, breeding Direwolves is an excellent way to obtain individuals with improved stats for Pelt gathering. Focus on breeding Direwolves with high melee damage and health. Imprinting on the offspring will further enhance their stats.
Does the quality of the Metal Hatchet affect Pelt gathering?
Yes, the quality of the Metal Hatchet significantly impacts the amount of Pelt harvested. Higher quality Metal Hatchets have higher damage output, resulting in more efficient resource gathering. Look for Metal Hatchets with the “Journeyman,” “Mastercraft,” or “Ascendant” designations.
What other resources can I gather with a Direwolf besides Fur?
While Direwolves are primarily known for Pelt gathering, they can also harvest a decent amount of Hide, Meat, and Keratin from corpses. However, their efficiency is highest when gathering Pelt.
Where can I find high-quality Metal Hatchets?
High-quality Metal Hatchets can be found in various loot crates throughout the ARK world, particularly in caves and deep-sea loot crates. You can also obtain them by defeating certain bosses or completing specific missions. Crafting them from blueprints is another option, provided you have the necessary resources.
Can I use Human Hair as a substitute for Pelt?
Yes, Human Hair can be used as a substitute for Pelt in some crafting recipes. You can obtain Human Hair by cutting your own hair or another player’s hair with Scissors. However, it may not be a viable substitute for all items requiring Pelt.
What are the best locations for farming Pelt on The Island map?
On The Island map, the best locations for farming Pelt include the snow biome in the northwest corner and the mountainous regions near the center of the map. These areas are home to Mammoths, Woolly Rhinos, Direwolves, and other Pelt-bearing creatures.
How does Fortitude affect my resistance to cold weather?
Increasing your Fortitude stat increases your natural Hypothermic Insulation, making you more resistant to cold weather effects. While Fortitude alone won’t replace the need for Fur Armor, it can provide a significant boost to your survivability in cold environments.
Is Tek Armor better than Fur Armor for cold protection?
Tek Armor provides excellent all-around protection, including both heat and cold resistance, making it suitable for a wide range of environments. However, it’s more of an end game item. While Fur Armor is specifically designed for cold weather, with a higher hypothermal insulation. For pure cold protection, a full set of Fur Armor will be slightly more effective than base Tek Armor.
What is the weight of a full set of Fur Armor?
A full set of Fur Armor is quite heavy, with a total weight of 48. This can significantly impact your carrying capacity, so consider leveling up your Weight stat or using a pack animal to carry extra items.
Does wearing Fur Armor make me more susceptible to heat?
Yes, wearing Fur Armor provides excellent protection against cold weather but makes you more susceptible to heat. A full set of Fur Armor provides negative Hyperthermal Insulation, making it uncomfortable to wear in hot environments.
How can I learn more about ARK: Survival Evolved?
To learn more about ARK: Survival Evolved, consider visiting the official ARK Wiki, joining the ARK community forums, or checking out resources like the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org. These resources offer valuable information, tips, and strategies for surviving in the world of ARK.
By mastering these tips and techniques, you’ll be well-equipped to conquer the cold and thrive in even the harshest environments of ARK: Survival Evolved. Happy hunting!