what is a skinwalker

A skinwalker is a harmful witch in Navajo culture who has the ability to turn into, possess, or disguise themselves as an animal. The term is never used for healers. Skinwalkers are believed to have the ability to steal the face of a person and can shapeshift into any animal or human. They are associated with witchcraft and are usually linked to trickster animals such as the coyote, as well as creatures associated with death or bad omens. Skinwalker stories often involve life and death struggles, and encounters with skinwalkers are considered serious and potentially dangerous in Navajo culture. The legend of skinwalkers is not well understood outside of Navajo culture, and it has inspired scary stories and urban legends.