coyote

The term carries two distinct connotations depending on the context. In a biological sense, it refers to the animal, often associated with wildness and opportunistic survival. In a socio-political context, it refers to human smugglers, specifically those operating along the US-Mexico border. This second usage is a metaphorical extension, likening the smuggler to the animal's perceived cunning and ability to navigate treacherous terrain.

When referring to the smuggler, the word is often used in news reporting or legal contexts regarding immigration. While the animal sense is neutral or scientific, the human sense can be pejorative or descriptive of criminal activity, depending on the speaker's perspective.