Template:KelbiTopics
Disclaimer: This is merely a plausible explanation for the monster(s) in this article, and should not be considered canon.
In-Game Information
Herbivorous, deer-like monsters. Valued for their horns, they tend to run away at the first hint of danger. They are also hunted for their meat, which is chewy but flavorful.
Taxonomy
Kelbi are small, herbivorous creatures that are abundant in warm forests and jungles. They are found in small herds, mostly females. Being so low on the food chain, they breed quickly and are skittish in temperament, often fleeing at the first sign of an approaching creature. Kelbi are agile and can scamper away quickly through the undergrowth. Male Kelbi are larger than females and have bigger horns, as well as being more brightly colored with a greenish coat. Female Kelbi are smaller, possess smaller horns and have a darker, slightly blue, coat.
Habitat Range.
The habitat of the Kelbi is far ranging, though they are most commonly seen in the forest and hills (which is where the quests considering them are based), they are also common in the jungles and the swamps. However, their thin hide makes it impossible to live in extreme places like the snowy mountains (where its more insulated cousin, the Anteka, lives) and the volcano, although it does have some resistance to the cold as they sometimes goes into the caves to search for springs of water. Unfortunately in these situations, they often become prey to cave-inhabiting predators like the Khezu. If there is grass there is bound to be some Kelbi around, dining on the succulent shoots.
Ecological Niche
The Kelbi is pretty much the lowest in the food chain, simply a herbivore that feeds on scrubs and grass. As being hunted is concerned, it is so small that it is probably only hunted by velociprey. Larger Wyverns such as Rathalos and Rathian do not tend to hunt Kelbi, because they are too small to be of any real sustenance for such a large creature (the latter possibly bringing a Kelbi for its young to eat).
Biological Adaptations
Kelbi are very fleet of foot. They can travel at great speeds over long distances, due in part to their light frame. Kelbi have a green/brown spotted coat that serves as camouflage in their forest homes. Kelbi's most notable feature is its horn, prized by hunters for its ability to create powerful herbal medicines and potions.
Behavior
Kelbi are very skittish creatures. They will run at first sight from any wyvern or other predatory species. When attacked they will, on occasion, defend themselves by ramming their foe with their large horns. Kelbi also have a habit of "playing dead" when injured they will lay on the ground, their bodies limp, and wait until the threat has moved on before fleeing. Sadly, this technique often doesn't work with large predator wyverns such as Rathalos, and only serves to make their kill even easier.