The Kig-Yar (Forerunner designation, translated into Latin: Perosus latrunculus, or "Hateful Bandit,"[2] human designation: Covenant secundarium carnivora prœdonis, or "Covenant secondary carnivorous combatant", Second Human Empire: Xuyi'uji Zuhg'juhi) are an avian/reptilian species[4] which serve the Covenant as mercenaries and privateers. There are two distinct subgroups of Kig-Yar, which Humans have termed Jackals and Skirmishers. In combat, Kig-Yar typically serve as snipers, shock troopers, defensive fighters, and scouts within the Covenant due to their excellent senses of sight, smell, and hearing.