The barnacle goose is one of the rare creatures that can be obtained in Dragon Tamer. As a magical goose that originates from Celtic folklore, owning the barnacle goose provides several benefits for dragon tamers. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about getting the barnacle goose in Dragon Tamer.
What is the Barnacle Goose?
The barnacle goose (Branta leucopsis) is a medium-sized goose species that breeds in the Arctic regions of Greenland, Svalbard, and Russia. Barnacle geese get their name from the belief that they originated from goose barnacles (shellfish that resemble geese when attached to driftwood). Their dark breast, white face, and grayish body make them easily distinguishable from other geese species.
In Dragon Tamer, the barnacle goose is a rare magical creature that can be tamed and kept as a pet. Some key facts about the barnacle goose in the game:
- Provides a permanent +5% boost to dragon bonding speed
- Can be sent on foraging missions to gather rare ingredients
- Has a chance of locating hidden treasure when exploring
- Grants a title when owned
As one of the most useful pets in the game, obtaining a barnacle goose is highly coveted by dragon tamers. However, finding and capturing one is no easy feat.
Where to Find Barnacle Geese
Barnacle geese are indigenous to northern coastal regions and islands. In Dragon Tamer, they can only be found in a few select arctic locations:
- Glacial Bay – A frozen bay tucked away in the far northern reaches of the map.
- Everfrost Isles – A treacherous island chain beset by year-round snow and ice.
- Frigrimm’s Peaks – The summit of this tall mountain range is constantly buffeted by cold winds and snowstorms.
Within these regions, barnacle geese congregate near shorelines and open water. They can often be seen resting on ice floes or foraging in shallow waters. Take care when approaching since loud noises can startle them into flight. Stealth and caution are key to getting close enough to capture one.
How to Catch a Barnacle Goose
Simply locating a barnacle goose does not guarantee you will be able to tame one. They are skittish and will flee if they sense danger. Attempting to catch one requires both strategy and skill.
Step 1: Obtain Glacier Lily Bait
The first step is acquiring glacier lily bait to lure a barnacle goose to you. Glacier lilies are blue flowers that only grow in arctic climates. Picking several of these flowers will allow you to craft the bait.
Bring an empty sack and gardening shears, then search around rocky slopes and snow banks for the scattered blue flowers. Harvest at least 10 to ensure you have enough bait.
Step 2: Approach Cautiously
Once you have the bait, find an isolated barnacle goose and crouch down to avoid being seen. Slowly approach it from behind, stopping if it looks over its shoulder. Get within 15-20 yards then hide behind something and wait for it to relax again.
Step 3: Lay the Bait
Now toss half the glacier lilies you picked near the goose. The bright blue color will attract its attention. Be prepared with your net or capturing weapon before tossing the bait.
Step 4: Catch the Goose!
As the barnacle goose moves towards the lilies, jump out and run towards it to startle it. Flail your arms and yell if necessary. As it tries to take flight, capture the goose in your net or trap. You may need an accomplice to help corner it.
Work quickly after baiting, as the goose will become suspicious if nothing happens. If it gets away or you run out of bait, start the process over again. Patience and timing are vitally important.
How to Bond with Your Barnacle Goose
Capturing a barnacle goose is only the first step.Next, you need to establish a bond and gain its trust. This process takes time, but allows you to train it as your loyal companion.
Step 1: House in Enclosure
Transport the captured goose safely to a pen or enclosure prepared ahead of time. Ensure it has shelter, fresh water, and nesting materials. Barnacle geese live near water, so also provide a child’s plastic pool if possible.
Step 2: Slowly Interact
Visit the goose several times a day and sit nearby while talking gently. Slowly move closer over time until you can sit beside it. Offer small amounts of food like corn, seeds, or aquatic plants.
Step 3: Build Trust
Over time, continue hand feeding your goose and engaging it. Pet it gently if possible and take it on walks after it is comfortable with you. Maintain its habitat and address any needs to show you are a responsible caretaker.
Step 4: Attempt Flying
Carefully try flying your goose on a lead or having it follow you unbound. Reward obedient behavior. Eventually, a strong bond will form and it will see you as a partner and friend.
Barnacle Goose Uses and Benefits
Once you’ve bonded with your barnacle goose, you’ll be able to utilize its many talents and abilities. Some key uses include:
- Dragon Bonding: Keep your goose with dragon pens and dens. Its presence helps reassure dragons and accelerate the bonding process. The permanent +5% buff makes a noticeable difference over time.
- Foraging: Send your goose on foraging expeditions to gather rare flowers, fish, and other ingredients. It will return with 1-3 items daily.
- Exploration: Bring your goose when exploring new islands or locations to potentially uncover hidden treasure caches.
- Title: “Barnacle Goose Owner” is granted when you fully bond with your goose. This rare title displays your accomplishment to others.
In addition to these benefits, many dragon tamers simply enjoy the rewarding experience of caring for their loyal barnacle goose. The bond formed over time is mutually fulfilling for both human and goose.
Risks and Dangers
While highly advantageous, obtaining a barnacle goose does come with some risks and dangers to consider:
- Poaching – Because of their rarity, some nefarious players or NPCs may try to steal or poach your goose.
- Accidental death – There is always a small chance a foraging accident or predator attack kills your goose, losing its benefits.
- Escape – Barnacle geese can be prone to wandering off or escaping enclosures if care is not taken to prevent it.
- Difficult upkeep – Properly caring for and feeding a goose takes extensive time, resources, and dedication long-term.
However, following the proper precautions and being a responsible owner mitigates most of these risks substantially. The rewards outweigh the risks for most serious dragon tamers.
Alternatives to Barnacle Geese
Not every player has the time, resources or desire to obtain a barnacle goose companion. Here are a few alternative options that provide similar benefits:
- Snow hare – This common arctic hare offers a small dragon bonding boost. Easier to obtain but provides minimal benefits.
- Ice fox – Uncommon white fox with enhanced exploration sensing skills. Harder to obtain than a hare.
- Frigrimm yak – Rare northern yak that excels at foraging like the barnacle goose. Does not aid dragon bonding.
- Dragon turtle – Aquatic dragon species that can also forage well when trained. Much harder to obtain and bond with than a goose.
While not as ideal as the barnacle goose, these creatures still offer useful aid as companions. Players should weigh time commitment needed against the benefits gained when deciding which to pursue.
Conclusion
The majestic barnacle goose is a huge boon for any dragon tamer in terms of bonding, foraging, and exploration. Yet catching and taming one requires immense time and effort. You must hunt in northern regions, carefully capture your goose, and build an enduring bond over time. That investment provides access to its many talents and rewards. While challenging, the barnacle goose is one of the most valuable creatures in Dragon Tamer for dedicated players. Follow this guide to add one of these incredible birds to your stable of companions.
