Accepting a Kestodon Kerfuffle is one of the earliest quests players encounter in Monster Hunter: World. Though simple in nature, this mission plays a key role in introducing basic mechanics, enemy behavior, and combat pacing to new hunters. It involves taking on a group of Kestodons, a low-tier monster species known for their aggressive headbutts and territorial behavior. While the fight may seem minor, understanding how to complete Accept a Kestodon Kerfuffle efficiently can help beginners build confidence and momentum as they progress through the early game. This guide explains everything you need to know about the quest, from locating your targets to tips for completing it faster.
Understanding the Quest Objective
Quest Overview
Accept a Kestodon Kerfuffle is a 1-star Assigned Quest given by the Commander shortly after you arrive at Astera. The mission tasks players with eliminating several Kestodons in the Wildspire Waste. This isn’t just about brute force it teaches positioning, dodging, and how to approach small monster engagements.
Quest Requirements
- Location: Wildspire Waste
- Objective: Hunt Kestodons (3 males and 5 females)
- Time Limit: 50 minutes
- Reward: Zenny and quest progression
This quest must be completed to advance the main storyline, making it mandatory for progressing in Monster Hunter: World.
Who Are the Kestodons?
Creature Behavior
Kestodons are small, herbivorous monsters that typically roam in herds. Males are more aggressive and bulkier, with pronounced horn-like crests, while females are smaller and quicker. When approached, male Kestodons often charge head-on, while females tend to retreat and regroup before attacking again.
Where to Find Kestodons
In Wildspire Waste, Kestodons usually appear in specific zones:
- Area 4: Common gathering spot for both male and female Kestodons
- Area 5: Frequently patrolled by female Kestodons
- Area 8: Additional backup spawn point if not enough are found in other zones
Once you’re in the right location, use your Scoutflies to track nearby monsters. As this is a low-rank quest, Kestodons will not be marked on your map by default unless tracked.
Recommended Gear and Preparation
Weapon Choice
Since Kestodons are low-health enemies with basic patterns, you don’t need top-tier weapons. However, using weapons with wide swings or strong mobility can help dispatch them faster:
- Great Sword: High damage, great for staggering male Kestodons
- Long Sword: Balanced speed and reach for dealing with groups
- Dual Blades: Excellent for targeting female Kestodons and quick hits
Armor Considerations
Defensive stats aren’t too important for this mission. However, if you have access to early armor pieces with skills like Attack Boost or Stamina Surge, they can help increase damage output and agility.
Items to Bring
- Whetstone – for maintaining sharpness mid-fight
- Potions – basic healing if caught off-guard by headbutts
- BBQ Spit or rations – restore stamina before and after battle
Combat Tips and Strategy
Fighting Male Kestodons
Male Kestodons are slow but will charge aggressively once you’re in range. Their headbutt is powerful enough to stagger you, especially if unguarded. The key to defeating them lies in dodging sideways when they lower their heads, then countering with heavy strikes to their flank or rear.
Important notes:
- They often telegraph their attacks, giving you time to prepare.
- Use hit-and-run tactics to avoid being overwhelmed.
- Knocking them down allows you to chain multiple attacks.
Handling Female Kestodons
Females are smaller, quicker, and tend to retreat mid-fight. They may attack in groups but usually don’t pose much threat if dealt with swiftly. Weapons with fast attack animations like Dual Blades or Sword and Shield are ideal for taking them down efficiently.
Strategy tips:
- Focus on one target at a time to avoid splitting damage.
- Corner retreating females against walls or terrain.
- Be aware of surrounding terrain some zones have elevation that can help with aerial attacks.
Managing Groups
When fighting multiple Kestodons, it’s easy to get caught in the middle. Try to isolate them using ledges or obstacles. If you’re using a ranged weapon like the Bow or Light Bowgun, position yourself on a high platform for clear shots while avoiding melee damage.
Completing the Quest Efficiently
Route Optimization
A good strategy is to start in Area 1 or 2 and move quickly to Area 4, where the bulk of the herd usually gathers. After clearing that group, head to Area 5 or 8 depending on how many Kestodons you still need to eliminate. Always keep your Scoutflies updated by examining tracks and dung for faster location targeting.
Quest Completion
Once you’ve slain all 8 Kestodons (3 male and 5 female), the mission will end automatically after a short countdown. Be sure to carve the corpses before the timer expires. You’ll receive Kestodon Shells and Scalps, which can be used for crafting early-game gear or traded for research points.
Post-Quest Rewards and Progression
Materials Gained
- Kestodon Shell: Used in armor and low-tier weapons
- Kestodon Scalp: Rare drop, used in specific early equipment
- Monster Bone S: Occasionally rewarded from quest completion
Unlocking the Next Step
Finishing Accept a Kestodon Kerfuffle pushes the story forward, granting access to additional investigations, the next Assigned Quest, and new gear in the Workshop. It’s a stepping stone to larger hunts and more challenging foes like the Barroth and Jyuratodus.
Beginner Mistakes to Avoid
1. Ignoring the Females
Some players mistakenly focus only on the more threatening male Kestodons, failing the quest by not eliminating enough females. Track your progress using the quest objective display and make sure you’re targeting the correct gender.
2. Overpreparing
This quest is designed to be simple. While it’s good to be cautious, bringing too many items or worrying about perfect gear is unnecessary. Focus on learning attack patterns and practicing combat fundamentals instead.
3. Getting Surrounded
Kestodons attack in groups. Don’t stay in the middle of a herd for long. Move constantly, reposition, and always prioritize enemies that are charging or about to attack.
Accept a Kestodon Kerfuffle is an essential early-game quest that helps players understand group combat and monster behavior. While it’s a relatively simple task, completing it efficiently teaches skills that become increasingly valuable later in the game. By learning to read monster patterns, manage positioning, and optimize routes, you’ll build the confidence and reflexes needed for tougher challenges ahead. Whether you’re a new hunter or just starting a fresh file, mastering this mission is a solid first step in your journey through Monster Hunter: World.