keeletails

Keeletails are small, nocturnal arboreal mammals described in the fictional fauna of the Keele Archipelago. They are characterized by a long, prehensile tail with a pronounced central keel along its dorsal surface, a feature that aids grip and balance in dense canopy. Adults measure roughly 8–16 cm in body length, with tails of 12–22 cm; fur is short and variable in color, typically brown or gray with lighter underfur.

Taxonomy and status are uncertain in speculative literature; keeletails are often placed in the fictional family Keeletidae, with several authors treating Keeleta minor as the type species and Keeleta major as a close relative.

Distribution and habitat: Keeletails inhabit temperate rainforest canopies of the Keele Archipelago, preferring mid to upper stories. They are highly arboreal and solitary, active mainly at night.

Behavior and diet: They move with rapid, precise climbs and occasional leaps. Diet is omnivorous, including fruits, seeds, insects, and nectar. Vocalizations are high-pitched chirps; tail movements communicate species and individual intent.

Reproduction: Breeding is seasonal, with single to two offspring per year; weaning occurs after several weeks.

Conservation: In the fictional world, keeletails have a broad distribution within suitable habitat and face limited threats; no ongoing conservation crisis is described.

Etymology: The name derives from the distinctive keeled structure of the tail, a feature highlighted in regional descriptions.