Watch Skinwalkers: The Navajo Mysteries

Skinwalkers: The Navajo Mysteries is a documentary series that first aired in 2002 on PBS. The show is hosted by Navajo investigator, Jay Vivian, who takes viewers on a journey through the myths and legends of the Navajo people as well as the modern day crimes that plague the Navajo reservation. Throughout the series, Vivian investigates various cases involving Navajo folklore and superstition, including the phenomenon of Skinwalkers.

The Skinwalker is a horrifying creature from Navajo mythology that is said to have the ability to transform into any animal or human form. It is believed that these beings are capable of shape-shifting into any creature they desire, but most commonly are associated with coyotes, wolves, foxes, owls, and crows. There are many different theories about how one becomes a Skinwalker, but most Navajo people believe that only a select few can possess such powers, and that they are typically people who have committed some heinous crime against the Navajo Nation or their people.

In each episode of the series, Vivian investigates different cases involving Skinwalkers. He meets with Navajo elders and medicine men who share their knowledge of Navajo folklore and traditional beliefs with him. He also talks with experts in the fields of anthropology, sociology, and criminal justice to gain insights into the mysteries surrounding these cases.

One episode of the series follows Vivian as he investigates the strange death of a Navajo girl who was found dead with her neck broken near a desolate road. The Navajo believe that Skinwalkers are responsible for such killings. Vivian hopes to find out if there is any truth to this belief. He interviews Navajo police officers, who explain that they have been investigating strange occurrences on the reservation for years, including disappearances and mysterious deaths. Vivian also meets with Navajo elders who explain the history of Skinwalkers and how they can be identified.

In another episode, Vivian interviews a Navajo man who claims to have seen a Skinwalker transformation firsthand. The man, who wished to remain anonymous, explains that he was driving on a lonely road when he saw a coyote run across the road in front of him. Suddenly, the coyote stopped and looked right at him, and then he watched in horror as it transformed into a human form