Breeding dinosaurs in Ark: Survival Evolved is a rewarding but complex process, adding another layer to the immersive gameplay. It allows players to genetically manipulate their tamed dinosaurs to create the strongest, most efficient creatures possible. In this guide, we will discuss the mechanics of breeding dinosaurs, how to hatch eggs, and the best ways to raise baby dinosaurs.

Mechanics of Dinosaur Breeding

1. Taming

The first step to breeding is taming. You'll need both a male and female of the species you wish to breed.

2. Mating

Once you have both a male and a female dinosaur, you can start the mating process. Place the dinosaurs close together and enable the 'Enable Wandering' option in their behavior settings. Alternatively, you can use the 'Mate' whistle command to start the process without having them wander off.

3. Gestation/Egg Laying

Mammalian dinosaurs will enter a gestation period, while others will lay a fertilized egg after successful mating. The egg must be taken care of to hatch while mammals need care during their gestation.

Hatching Eggs in Ark

Taking care of a fertilized egg is a delicate process. Each species of dinosaur requires a specific temperature range to incubate their eggs. You can manipulate the temperature around the egg using air conditioners, campfires, or torches.

Here's the general process:

1. Pick up the Egg: After mating, quickly pick up the laid egg, as it begins losing health immediately if left on the ground in incorrect temperatures.
2. Check the Incubation Requirements: Each egg has a specific temperature range required for incubation.
3. Create the Perfect Environment: Use various heating or cooling sources like standing torches or air conditioners to create the perfect incubation environment.
4. Wait for the Hatch: Place the egg in the suitable environment and wait for it to hatch.

Raising Baby Dinosaurs

Once your dinosaur hatches or is born, the next step is raising it. This can be time-consuming and resource-intensive but results in a dinosaur with potentially better stats and abilities.

1. Feeding the Baby: Initially, baby dinosaurs only eat from their inventory. Keep their inventory stocked with appropriate food (meat for carnivores, berries for herbivores), as their small stomachs empty quickly.
2. Imprinting: Periodically, a baby dino will request imprinting, which involves either a walk, a specific food item, or a cuddle. Successful imprinting increases the dino's stats and the effectiveness of the dino when ridden by the imprinter.
3. Maturation: Baby dinosaurs go through several stages of growth: baby, juvenile, adolescent, and finally adult. Each stage has different feeding and care requirements, with the baby stage being the most intensive.

Breeding and raising dinosaurs in Ark: Survival Evolved is one of the most rewarding aspects of the game, providing powerful creatures that can be a game-changer for both individual players and tribes. Although the process can be resource and time-consuming, the results are well worth it. So, gather your best creatures, start your breeding program, and become the master breeder of Ark!