Skinwalkers, known as yee naaldlooshi in Navajo culture, are malevolent shapeshifters rooted in Navajo spirituality and folklore. The term yee naaldlooshi translates roughly to "it goes on all fours," referring to their ability to transform into animals like coyotes, wolves, or owls.
In Navajo tradition, skinwalkers are feared as malevolent figures who use their powers for selfish or harmful purposes, often targeting individuals or communities out of envy, revenge, or malice. They are said to mimic voices to lure victims, move unnaturally fast, and be nearly impossible to kill without specific traditional methods, such as using bullets dipped in white ash.
Discussing skinwalkers is often taboo within Navajo communities, as speaking about them is believed to attract their attention... listen at your own risk.
Sep 1 202514 min