Kobold¶
Kobolds are a cowardly, sadistic race of short humanoids that vigorously contest the human and humanoid races for living space and food. They especially dislike gnomes and attack them on sight.
Barely clearing three feet in height, kobolds have scaly hides that range from dark, rusty brown to a rusty black. They smell of damp dogs and stagnant water. Their eyes glow like a pair of bright red sparks, and they have two small horns ranging from tan to white. Because of the kobolds’ fondness for wearing raggedy garb of red and orange, their non-prehensile rat-like tails, and their language (which sounds like small dogs yapping), these fell creatures are often not taken seriously. This is often a fatal mistake, for what they lack in size and strength they make up in ferocity and tenacity.
Some have also noted small humanoids called “tasloi” and “xvarts.” While
all are nearly harmless met singly, they always attack in packs. This is a
good reason to travel accompanied, dear readers, if not just for the
company.
—Volo
Source: bgee/original_manuals/baldurs_gate_1_ee_sword_coast_survival_guide.pdf — "Some Monsters of the Sword Coast" → "Kobold".