Editing Mgalekgolo

{{Ratings}}
{{Era|H1|H2|H3|H3R|HW|FOR|TF|FS|GOO|CH|HGN|UP}}

{{Covenant Species Infobox
|name=Lekgolo (''Ophis congregatio'')
|image=[[Image:Cov Hunter.jpg|300px]]
|homeworld=[[Te]]
|height=12 feet, 9 inches (393 cm)
|weight=10,500 pounds (4,762 kg)
|skincolor=*Red-orange
*Orange blood
|distinctions=A single entity created by a unified colony of small worm-like creatures called [[Lekgolo]].
|equipment=*Heavy Metal Shield
*Mgalekgolo armor
*[[Assault Cannon]].
|types=Combat Lekgolo Colo
|notable=*[[Ogada Nosa Fasu]] 
*[[Igido Nosa Hurru]]
*[[Paruto Xida Konna]]
*[[Waruna Xida Yotno]]
|othernames=
*Hunter
*Can of Worms
*Big Scary Monster
*The Thing with Spikes
*Ogre
*Orange Worm Crap
*The Spiked Worm}}

[[Image:Hunter1.jpg|thumb|A "Hunter" form, the most commonly encountered type of Mgalekgolo.]]

{{Quote|They're all scary and angry and they like to smash things.|[[Bungie]]}}

The '''Mgalekgolo'''<ref>''[[Bestiarum]]''</ref> (''Ophis congregatio'', meaning "serpent union"<ref>[http://carnage.bungie.org/haloforum/halo.forum.pl?read=865756 HBO Forums]</ref>) are a unique gestalt of smaller creatures known as [[Lekgolo]], which are tiny, orange, worm-like creatures that group together to geometrically increase their intelligence, strength, and maneuverability. [[Humans]] call the Mgalekgolo '''Hunters'''. During and after the [[Great Schism]] there was a division within the species, some aligning with the [[Covenant Separatists]] and others remaining with the [[Covenant Loyalists]].

==Background==
When the Mgalekgolo home world of [[Te]] was visited by the [[Covenant]], intent on mining its riches, they faced, instead, heavy resistance from what the humans know as "Hunters". Their physiology gave them a tremendous and unexpected advantage in combat, not only hampering, but even halting, the Covenant's advance and killing an [[Arbiter (Rank)|Arbiter]]. The Covenant were further infuriated by the Lekgolo's destruction of [[Forerunner]] artifacts during the Mgalekgolo's routine feedings.<ref>''[[Halo: Contact Harvest]]''</ref> In ground combat campaigns they were mostly victorious, despite the valiant effort of the [[Sangheili]]. The Covenant was forced to rely on [[Glassing|orbital bombardment]], a strategy against which the Mgalekgolo had little-to-no defense. Thus, to save themselves from extinction, their only choice was to agree to join the Covenant. This later came to be known as the [[Taming of the Hunters]]. Terms for their induction into the Covenant were eventually met, despite communication difficulties (which hampered the process). In their agreement to join with the Covenant, the Lekgolo worms, which fed on specific minerals, were consigned to investigate the [[Forerunner Dreadnought]] that resided in ''[[High Charity]]'' and help uncover its inner workings. Their price for this trade was access to [[Slipspace|space-travel technologies]] and exploration of the [[Covenant]] space lanes.

When a single colony of Mgalekgolo becomes too big, the colony will divide in half to create two independent Mgalekgolo colonies. These colonies will share an extremely close and mysterious bond, referred to only as being "bond brothers", or "mates".<ref>''[[Halo: The Flood]]''</ref> The armor and [[Assault Cannon|Assault Cannons]] used by the Mgalekgolo were given to them by the Sangheili after the former joined the Covenant. Mgalekgolo that have split into "bond brothers" are recognized by spiked appendages that rise from their shoulders, which means that they are bonded to another Mgalekgolo.<ref>''[[Halo: Contact Harvest]]''</ref> Bonded Mgalekgolo colonies are dropped into battle together by the Covenant, as the Spartans learned: where you find a Hunter, there is another close by. If one of the bonded colonies is killed, the other will go into a frenzied state, much like the berserk state of a [[Jiralhanae]], or the suicidal charge of an [[Unggoy]]. If left alone for a long period of time, however, they will adopt a "split personality" of shooting followed by melee attacks.

During the [[Battle of Onyx]], some Hunters apparently had command of lower-ranking [[Sangheili]], signifying they may have a higher military rank in the Covenant military than previously indicated.

==Description==
Hunters take a hulking bipedal form in the Covenant military.<ref>''Bestiarum''</ref> In this form, they are the strongest and most resilient species in the Covenant <ref>''[[Halo 3 Game Guide]]'',  http://www.microsoft.com/silverlight/halo3.aspx, On Covenant character page.</ref>. These forms stand between twelve and thirteen feet tall, but when in their combat state they crouch into between eight to eight-and-one-half feet, protecting their visible, unarmored stomach and neck. Their armor has a blue luster that makes the orange-red skin of the [[Lekgolo]] worms inside very noticeable, but the colony itself is hard to spot. They always fight in pairs due to the fact that when the colony gets too big, it splits into another Hunter form, creating an enormous bond between the two bond brothers. Their political motivation, according to the ''[[Bestiarum]]'', is completely unknown.

Hunters fight using assault cannons integrated directly into their [[armor]], and they carry an enormous, and nearly impervious metal shield made of an unknown alloy derived from the same material that forms Covenant warship hulls. This shield protects them from almost every form of plasma-based or ballistic weaponry available to Covenant and [[human]] infantry alike, and is a powerful [[melee]] tool capable of crushing anything in its path and allowing the Mgalekgolo to sweep away most enemies in close combat. The Hunter can also gain a surprising burst of speed when it moves in for a melee kill.

The assault cannon the Hunter wields operates in two modes; one firing a single explosive capsule of incendiary fluid<ref>''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''</ref>, the other spraying the fluid out like a beam.<ref>''[[Halo 2]]''</ref><ref>''[[Halo 3]]''</ref> The beam is more devastating than the single explosive shot, because this attack lasts longer and so wide spread damage can be done to more than just one enemy, or a single enemy can be badly injured or even killed. Hunters cannot drive any known vehicles except [[Type-47 Ultra Heavy Assault Platform|Scarabs]], in which a colony is infused into the circuitry of the vehicle.

==Communication==
None of the specifics of the Hunters' language are known. The best examples are seen in the Hunters' naming. It seems they use very simple vowels, and few consonants; not near the same amount as the English alphabet. It is known, however, that they do not use vocal cords to speak. Instead, they seem to vibrate the Lekgolo in their bodies to make sounds. Their quiet nature among the Covenant is either a product of them having difficulty speaking with other Covenant races, or they are mostly contemptuous of all Covenant races, except the [[Sangheili]]. Hunters' speech can be heard in all the Halo games, and changes very little between each game. They usually just make very deep, low rumbling noises when sighting enemies or when wounded. When dying, they seem to emit a low-pitched scream. They also seem to chuckle after a kill. Aside from that, Hunters barely talk. They are, however, capable of mimicking the language of other species via subsonic vibrations, forming words and sentences that are "felt" rather than "heard".<ref>''Halo: Ghosts of Onyx'', page 191</ref><ref>[[http://www.bungie.net/projects/odst/guide.aspx ''Halo 3: ODST'' Field Guide]</ref>

==Culture==
Lekgolo almost never associate, or even communicate, with other [[Covenant]] client races, except for the [[Sangheili]], since they appreciate and acknowledge their similar warrior thoughts and respect the Elite's high status among Covenant society and their adeptness in combat. However, they are dismissive, scornful, and arrogant to the "lesser" Covenant races like [[Unggoy]] and [[Kig-Yar]] and are utterly contemptuous of their foes. Hunters will not hesitate to run over a [[Kig-yar|Jackal]] as seen at the [[Battle of Sigma Octanus IV]]. In [[Halo 3: ODST]] Hunters will attack regardless of what is in the way. This is notable on the final mission, if a Hunter is obstructed by another Covenant soldier the Hunter will still attack, often killing lesser enemies.

Many of the Covenant are mystified and confused by the Mgalekgolo and indeed their way of life is almost as alien to them as the [[Flood]]. A Sangheili [[Fleet Master]] once noted that they were known to tear opponents apart with their "bare hands" whilst in a blood frenzy and then pause to recite war poetry.<ref>''[[Ghosts of Onyx]]''</ref> It has also been said that Hunters meditate in their spare time, or before battle. During the [[Covenant Civil War]], most Hunter pairs sided with the Sangheili and the [[Covenant Separatists]], but some sided with the [[Prophet of Truth]] and the [[Covenant Loyalists]]. There is no known reason for the split in loyalty, but it is likely due to their deep respect for the Elites from the events of the Taming of the Hunters, or because they acknowledge the Elites' similar warrior thoughts. However, in ''Halo 3'', no Hunters are ever seen supporting [[John-117|Master Chief]], possibly due to him being human, their hatred for him, or all the Hunter mates that followed the elites died in battle. The same applies for the Elites, as [[Brute]] allied Hunters will simply see them as enemies. It is also possible that in the making of ''[[Halo 3]]'', [[Bungie]] did not want to confuse players by having them with both the Separatists and the [[Loyalists]], so they were only shown as Loyalists.

==Naming==
Hunters have three names: a personal name, a bond name, and a line name. The personal name is given at their "birth". The line name represents the genetic heritage, being the name of the most successful Mgalekgolo of his ancestors. If one reaches a certain level of status, his offspring will have his personal name as their line name. The bond name, or their middle name, is taken between bonded pairs, colonies that must split into two due to excessive size. Examples of some Hunter names include [[Igido Nosa Hurru]] and [[Ogada Nosa Fasu]]. From the few Hunter names that have appeared in the novels, it seems that the given name has three syllables, but the bond name and line name only have two syllables. This may be another [[7]] reference, as 3 + 2 + 2 = 7.

However, it is not known why the line name is not three syllables, considering that the ancestor in question's given name would be three syllables. It is most likely not always three syllables or the name is edited (a syllable is possibly taken away) before the offspring is given the line name.

== Anatomy and Physiology ==

[[Image:Scarab_Lekgolo.jpg|160px|thumb|left|[[Lekgolo]] worms inside a [[Scarab]] shell.]]

Hunters are not a single organism, but rather are composed of multiple small, orange, eel-like beings called [[Lekgolo]], that form a single collective consciousness and act as one, a single "hive-mind", similar to the structure of operation in the flood. In other words they are a communal organism working together to perform specific tasks. Mgalekgolo are capable of manifesting in several different iterations according to what goal they are striving to achieve and the amount of [[Lekgolo]] worms that are present. The Hunter is the most common form seen in combat during the [[Human-Covenant War]], but is actually one of the more rare forms in the Lekgolo society. This Mgalekgolo is employed by the Covenant as heavy infantry. Their society is predominated by this combination of being able to create exponentially more intelligent creatures, and the actual "Hunter" organism is one of the rarer and smaller forms to be found, used primarily in interaction with the Covenant hierarchy.

The almost indestructible armor that covers them serves the purpose of protecting the Lekgolo colony, although it doesn't cover their back very well.

[[File:Hunter 3.jpg|thumb|160px|A [[Hunter]] fighting in a building on the ''[[Halo 3]]'' level, "[[The Covenant (Level)|The Covenant]]".]]

Because of their make-up of several hundred "eels" instead of being a single large organism, the Lekgolo are one of the only species in the Covenant that cannot be assimilated by the Flood, as their unique physiology does not allow the organism to access a central nervous system or control them to any capacity. As such, there has never been a Hunter [[Combat Form]], though the flesh of the Lekgolo can most likely be used by the Flood simply for its biomass.

The collection of eels that make up a Hunter's body are unintelligent at the most basic level, but can form complex thoughts and emerge as a conscious individual when they combine into larger masses that communicate through chemical and electrical means.

The neural net that Hunters develop enables them to be incredibly strong and very sensitive to all things within a 1,000 foot line pointing out from non-combat form, and a half sphere that extends 500 feet in combat form{{Verify_source}}. This could explain why Hunters sometimes can locate the Master Chief even when they cannot see him, or when they are facing the opposite direction. This also explains why Hunters can think and work as an effective combat unit without even using verbal communication.
Hunters generally growl during battle but will sometimes talk and make remarks like the other Covenant species. Instead of using vocal chords, like other Covenant species, they vibrate their bodies to make a low rumble that is described as "more felt than heard" to produce speech.<ref>''[[Halo: Ghosts of Onyx]]'', pages 190-191</ref>

It is theorized that Hunters reproduce asexually similar to earthworms; however there is no way to be certain. If true, calling Hunter pairs "mates" would only make sense in term for the pairing of two, not actually mating.

== Religion ==
All that can be said for certain about Mgalekgolo religious beliefs is that they vary. While the Lekgolo joined the Covenant for its access to space trade routes and starships, rather than any real dedication to the Great Journey, at least some hold a concept of an "afterlife".<ref>''[[Bestiarum]]''</ref><ref>''[[Halo: The Flood]]''</ref> Other Lekgolo meditate in their spare time, or recite war poetry before or after battle, showing a more refined nature than would be believed of the hulking, savage warriors.<ref>''[[Halo: Ghosts of Onyx]]''</ref> The fact that some allied themselves with the [[Sangheili]] during the [[Great Schism]], while others remained with the [[Covenant Loyalists]], is further evidence that individual beliefs play a major part in Mgalekgolo religion.<ref>''[[Halo 3]]''</ref> Anything further than this is speculation, Lekgolo culture is extremely reclusive, and even their fellow Covenant know little about them other than that they continue to follow their own cultural traditions, rather than the homogenized religion of the wider Covenant.<ref>[http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&cid=697 The Covenant Primer: Best of The Bestiary]</ref>

===Ranking System===
Unlike other Covenant forces, Hunters seem to possess no visible rank. They are deployed as support troops rather than as baseline soldiers, which may therefore indicate that a rank is unnecessary as they are used as equipment rather than soldiers. They seem to be of a low rank, but only take commands from Prophets or Elites. 

However, they can be deployed independently of other Covenant troops, which may indicate that a level of independence and responsibility may be granted, thus meaning that they may have a high enough rank to be trusted by themselves. In ''[[Halo: Fall of Reach]]'', Mgalekgolo are seen guarding the crystal in [[Cote d'Azur]], which is retrieved by [[Blue Team]]. As they are guarding such a highly valued target, they may be of a higher rank than other Hunter pairs. Also they killed a [[Jackal]] by stepping on it, which may show that they are higher in rank than the Jackals. 

[[Image:Gold Hunter.png|right|thumb|180px|A pair of Gold Hunters in ''[[Halo 3: ODST]]''.]]

In ''Halo 3: ODST'', a new type of Hunter appears. Known as Spec-Ops Hunters, These wear golden armor and are armed with mortar-firing Assault Cannons, similar to the model featured in [[Halo: Combat Evolved]]. It is believed that they are more experienced in combat&nbsp;than the normal blue-armored Hunters.

Hunters wearing red armor are seen guarding the [[Forerunner Dreadnought]] in [[High Charity]]{{Verify_source}}.

=== Combat ===
==== ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'' ====
A Hunter's armor is extremely resilient, is resistant to most small arms fire, and significantly reduces the damage they take from enemy projectiles (on Normal difficulty, a Hunter can still be killed with a few dozen pistol or plasma shots to the armor). However, in later games the armor is completely immune to small arms fire, and projectiles simply bounce off it harmlessly.

However, they have an exploitable weak spot (in which it will take a single pistol shot to kill them), the exposed orange flesh located in their midsections and necks. While they keep the exposed areas on the fronts of their bodies well-covered with their shields, rarely giving the player an opening unless the Hunter tries to melee them, the creature's backs have a large exposed area that is extremely vulnerable. If a rocket is fired at them, it does not matter where you are aiming, it will always kill with one shot (unless you are in [[Legendary]] and sometimes [[Heroic]] mode, in which case it may take two rockets). Another tactic available is to shoot the green sections of their [[Assault Cannon]] (only successful with the [[pistol]]).

In addition, while not on alert to an enemy's presence they assume a stance where their neck and midsection is especially vulnerable. While firearms are incapable of penetrating a Hunter's armor, it cannot stand up to heavy weapons such as rockets and artillery.

In ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'', Hunters were difficult to defeat; their [[A.I.]] was quick and decisive, their shots and melees fast and elegant, and they could move fast enough to run down a back-pedaling [[SPARTAN]], but their melee could be dodged with proper skill. A tactic against Hunters that might be better when you're only fighting a single one is when you get very close to the Hunter to make it charge you. If you have an [[M6D]], it is very useful whereas the [[sniper rifle]] or anything else might be less effective. Certainly not the [[rocket launcher]] for the range. So, when it charges you and lifts up its shield to [[melee]] you, then it can shoot in the exposed orange region of its stomach. 

Interestingly in ''[[Halo PC]]'', if you don't move from your position while a Hunter is firing at you, it is very unlikely that it will hit you with its Assault Cannon. 

Other weapons, especially the [[shotgun]] and [[SRS99C-S2 AM Sniper Rifle|sniper rifle]] for very short and very long distances respectively, were equally deadly. The rocket launcher was always effective, but never particularly necessary. Grenades were only moderately effective, as the Hunter could withstand a half-dozen grenade blasts.

[[Plasma]] weapons, with the exception of the plasma rifle on lower difficulties, were often ineffective, as was the [[needler]]. The [[MA5B Assault Rifle]] takes too long to make a kill so other weapons were far more useful.

On Legendary, some players regarded Hunters as one of the most challenging enemies in the game (killing them is a difficulty, even when armed with the most appropriate of weapons). Inexperienced or careless players can fall victim to the Hunters' attacks, which, while easy to anticipate, are rather quick and powerful.

A unique way to kill a Hunter, (which does not work in ''Halo 2'') is to melee it over and over again and can be done to the front of the Hunter. But it is highly recommended to hit from behind, as it is easier for them to attack what's in front of them.

Another way to kill a hunter is to jump on the hunter while he is doing a melee, and shoot the hunter's vulnerable back with a pistol, which would badly damage, if not kill, the hunter. However, often the range you jump would be so far that accurately shooting at the hunter is difficult.

[[Image:Hunter4.jpg|thumb|left|[[SPARTAN-II Program|SPARTAN-IIs]] about to exploit the Hunter's main weak spot: their unprotected backs in ''[[Halo: CE]]''.]]

Hunters really gained the upper hand in the cramped hallways of the ''[[Truth and Reconciliation]]'' and the [[The Maw (Level)|''Pillar of Autumn'']], where there was little space to dodge the fuel rods or crushing melee blows, and no room to utilize either a sniper rifle or rocket launcher to defeat them. Still, these levels were full of shotgun or pistol ammo and these weapons are reasonably useful against Hunters at close range, especially the pistol.

If one were to stand far away from the Hunter, it might bring to bear its Assault Cannon. Its projectile has a high velocity, but it can be dodged at a distance with only minor skill. It is also easy to anticipate, as the barrel of the weapon glows bright green before firing. If one were in melee range of the Hunter, it might also wield its shield in as a powerful melee weapon, resulting in serious injury, if not death for the intended target. These attacks can be, at most times, simple to avoid. In ''[[Halo 2]]'' and ''[[Halo 3]]'', however, it seems the Hunters have downgraded their weapons. Instead of dealing all the damage on impact, the damage is spread out over a second time span, in the form of a continuous beam. The beam also travels slower, and has a much lower rate of fire, making it very easy to avoid. 

On certain levels, it is possible to defeat Hunters by standing in front of a cliff and then sidestepping them as they attempt a melee attack. If timed correctly, the Hunter, unable to stall its momentum, will fall from the precipice to its death.

Hunters are, like all other enemies in ''Halo: Combat Evolved'', extremely vulnerable to vehicle collisions. A [[Warthog]] can kill a Hunter instantly with even the slightest nudge or tap. This was due to the physics engine of the game, which could not determine the difference between a fast moving and a slow moving vehicle; hence all vehicle contact with an enemy on foot resulted in instant death. A Hunter could attempt a large leap away from the vehicle, however, which can sometimes result in the Hunter getting away temporarily. However, a Hunter's assault cannon shot can flip a warthog easily.

Lining up Hunters so that they shoot themselves is dangerous, difficult, and is not advised because the alternatives are rather simple on most levels, even on Legendary.

However, if you have more than two plasma grenades and light fire weapons like the assault rifle, hunters are no problem. Just stick the plasma grenades to them (the shield reflects the grenades), and shoot the hunter with your weapon until the grenades go off. For most, that usually kills them. 

==== ''[[Halo 2]]'' ====

[[Image:Dgodt Visr Foltz.PNG|thumb|right|A Hunter on the ''[[Halo 2]]'' level, "[[The Great Journey (Level)|The Great Journey]]".]]

The Hunters underwent a number of changes for ''[[Halo 2]]''. For example, they will react more aggressively to the loss of their bond brother. They appear in fewer numbers, and they are for the most part easier and less dangerous than in ''Halo: CE''. They are also invulnerable to melee attacks, whereas in ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'', melees would actually cause damage to the hunter. 

[[Image:H2_hunter_assaultcannon.jpg|thumb|right|A Hunter's assault cannon as mounted on its arm, in ''[[Halo 2]]''.]]

The most notable change is their new weapon: although similar to the old [[Fuel Rod Gun]]-like Assault Cannon, the new assault cannon fires a continuous beam of green incendiary gel rather than an arcing projectile. The weapon cannot fire as often, and it has a much lower velocity, making it easy to avoid.

In addition, the Hunters are over 20% larger<ref>''[[The Art of Halo]]'', Creating a Virtual World</ref> and 10% slower, making it much easier to target. Their increased strengths go towards your advantage when playing as the Arbiter; the Hunters are then powerful and durable allies. 

They have gained a new move, too: the ability to attack an enemy behind them. This effectively makes the old strategy of "dodge-and-fire" less effective. 

Finally, the Hunters have much more health. Most small arms do rather moderate damage against them, in contrast to the [[M6D]]'s ability to kill them in a single shot. For example, on [[Normal]] difficulty, it takes 11 shots from the [[M6C Magnum Sidearm]], 6 full bursts from the [[BR55 Battle Rifle|battle rifle]], or 10 shots from the [[Covenant carbine]] to kill a Hunter.

On [[Heroic]] and lower difficulties, sniper weapons will kill a Hunter in a single shot, as do machine gun turrets and [[plasma cannon]]s. However, on Legendary, not a single weapon can kill them in one hit. A [[SRS99C-S2 AM Sniper Rifle]] or [[beam rifle]] will take two shots to kill a Hunter on [[Legendary]].

Often, the most effective weapon against them is the one that does the most damage: the [[rocket launcher]] is greatly effective, as is the [[fuel rod cannon]]. While these weapons take two and three shots respectively to kill a Hunter on Legendary, they can damage one regardless of where it hits it. If lacking a sniper rifle and a heavy weapon, simply switch to the Covenant carbine or the battle rifle (BR's slightly stronger). To put one down, aim for the exposed flesh to and empty your rounds. It should take around a magazine (maybe a magazine and a half on Legendary) to kill one. 

''Note: that in large areas without cover, you may invariably lose. Do not use the energy sword, as it is worse than useless (it brings you to close quarters with the Hunter, where it can easily beat you down).''

Grenades still do little damage against Hunters and it will usually take a large amount of them to take one down. However, grenades, hand held or fired from the [[Brute Shot]], will disorient a Hunter, giving the player an opportunity to shoot at its exposed flesh. Perhaps the most effective method to defeat a Hunter would be to stick a [[Plasma Grenade]] to it and shoot it in its exposed back with a beam rifle or sniper rifle, as a plasma grenade in this fashion will make the Hunter do a 180 degree turn or freeze on the spot. Another interesting change from [[Halo: Combat Evolved|''Halo: CE'']] is that plasma grenades now stick to the Hunters' shields, whereas in ''Halo: CE'' they simply bounced off if not stuck elsewhere. Plasma grenades can also be used to kill a Hunter by sticking it in the back or stomach, which due to the arc of the throw, is not very difficult. This also gives the player time to shoot them with another weapon.

If an enemy gets too close, the Hunter will attempt a clumsy but dangerous melee attack with its shield, severely injuring if not killing the enemy. Once its partner is killed, the Hunter becomes much more aggressive and will chase the player, attempting to avenge its partner's death by only melee attacks.

When battling the [[UNSC]] [[Marines]], one Hunter will engage the Marines in close combat, whilst the other will hang back and support with the [[Assault Cannon]]. If one of the Hunters dies, the other will occasionally leap forward and attempt to smash an enemy with its shield. If this attack connects, the foe on the receiving end of the blow will invariably die. Generally, hunters have a harder time taking down marines than they had in Halo: CE, but that is because the health of marines has been increased drasticly, they almost have 175% more health in normal difficulty. 

During the last level of Halo 2, many players are relieved to find out that 2 pairs of Hunters are with them. Due to their amazing strength and size, it is logical to hide behind them and activate your camouflage to escape from being harmed (for beginners). However, on Legendary, some players go first, and take out as many Brutes as possible, so they won't have to deal with them later.

==== ''[[Halo 3]]'' ====
[[Image:20668064-Full.jpg|thumb|right|255px|Two Hunters on the level, [[The Storm (Level)|The Storm]].]]
The Hunters in ''[[Halo 3]]'' are even more advanced then their ''[[Halo 2]]'' counterparts. They are even larger and much stronger, but appear less bulky.

The most notable feature of Hunters in [[Halo 3]] is that they work, react, and function very much as a pair. Their computer AI for the game allows the Hunters to seem very closely bonded to the other, finally creating the "bond brother" idea. In the game, they also do some things simultaneously, such as strike at an enemy behind together, which further displays their connections to each other. This "bond" is most noticeable in Halo 3, but somewhat appears less in the previous two games as well. 

Flexible armor plating covers their previously vulnerable “stomach” areas. All melee attacks are faster and much deadlier, and these Hunters now anticipate enemies behind it and can attack them. But their armor is more interactive, so if back plating is removed, there will be a bigger target to shoot at. When the spikes fall off, small stubs of Lekgolo are left where the spike used to be. Hunters are also able to be killed by melee attacks again, as in [[Halo: CE]]. However it seems that Hunters are more vulnerable to melee attacks in [[Halo 3]].
[[Image:1221306015 800px-1218481302 Huner2.jpg|thumb|right|250px| Two Hunters in combat position.]]
If a grenade is thrown at a Hunter, it can strafe-jump away from the explosion. However, their spikes and back armor now falls off in pieces as the Hunter accumulates damage, and their Assault Cannons do slightly less damage, while it appears that [[grenades]] and explosives seem to do more damage compared to the other two games and can kill instantly if stuck on the back or neck on Heroic or a lower difficulty. Gravity Hammers can also do a great deal of damage if hit in the exposed part of their back. Meleeing them with a Brute Shot in the back usually blows off its covering armor plating, but hitting the unprotected part instantly kills it, and strangely sends the Hunter flying 30 feet in the air. This may be a glitch or just something Bungie mistakenly left in ''Halo 3'' after development, this can be done with other species too.

The most effective weapons against them are [[Support Weapons|support weapons]] and explosives. It is also possible to kill a Hunter in one ram with a [[Ghost]], [[Wraith]], and [[Chopper]] when using the turbo boost. The most effective weapons against Hunters are the [[Spartan Laser]] and [[Plasma Cannon]], the [[Plasma Cannon]] works much like the [[Plasma Rifle]] did in Halo: Combat Evolved, killing them very quickly, as does its human counterpart the [[Machine Gun Turret]]. And like most things in [[Halo 3]] the [[Spartan Laser]] kills in one shot. The [[Missile Pod]] and [[Rocket Launcher]], both explosive weapons, can tear apart Hunters. As can dual plasma rifles if you hit them in their unprotected backs. 

If a Hunter is unaware of the player or his allies, it will usually stand still. This the perfect chance for the player to use a powerful scoped weapon such as the [[Sniper Rifle]] or a "messy" weapon with slow projectiles and arc effects such as the [[Fuel Rod Gun]], or a [[Plasma|Plasma Grenade]] or [[Spike Grenade]]. If the player is in front of or on the side of the Hunter, he can use the scoped weapon on its neck, which is slightly weaker than its back, and weaken it with 1-2 shots, and then finish it off with his grenades. If he is on its rear, the best choice would be the "messy" weapon. He should&nbsp;shoot 2 shots (without waiting for the first to reach its target, he should fire the second) to ensure an easy kill. Of course, if he has the [[Rocket Launcher]] or the [[Spartan Laser]] with him, he should face the Hunter and destroy it with one shot. One way to get to a Hunters back is to have one teammate shoot the hunter in the front, (wasting ammo so use a plasma pistol, or a [[SMG]]) while the other player sneaks around the back and sticks it.

If you do not have these, it is best to sit back and use the [[Battle Rifle]] or [[Covenant Carbine]] to the vulnerable areas.

Hunters are easier to kill in Halo 3 because the hunters have become larger and slower, making it easier to hit their weak spots.

Only 8 hunters appear appeared in the Halo 3 campaign, meaning that most have sided with the [[Covenant Separatists]].

==== ''[[Halo 3: ODST]]'' ====
[[File:94299424-Full.jpg|thumb|255px|A golden Hunter fires his assault cannon at night.]]
Like in Halo 3, Hunters travel in pairs, but there is the odd moment where you will find a Hunter by his lonesome, usually in [[firefight]]. A pack of Hunters may consist of two regular Hunters, one blue and gold Hunter, or two gold Hunters. Other than the color, the only difference between the blue and gold variants is the weapon they carry. Gold Hunters carry an assault cannon similar to the cannon used by the Hunter in Halo: CE, but with rounds identical to fuel rod rounds in Halo 3. This means that the round will travel quickly, and with little arc.

As in Halo 3, Hunters are most susceptible to attacks from behind, where powerful weapons such as the machinegun turret or rocket launcher will do incredible damage. Close quarters combat is now extremely dangerous because you run more slowly and can not jump as high while playing as an [[Orbital Drop Shock Trooper|ODST]]. Sometimes, it is possible to put the Hunter into a chain of continuous melee attacks, regardless of how far away you are from it, and the trick is to get close enough to it to make it melee, then, back off and shoot its exposed area continuously, and it in turn will continuously melee. Be cautious when attempting this method, because if the Hunter lands a melee, you will not live much longer.

Combating gold Hunters is more risky at long range, because their fuel rod projectiles travel faster, can be fired quite quickly in succession, and carry massive splash damage. This makes them more formidable against vehicles. It is recommended that the player weaves in such a way that the Hunter will constantly have to adjust its aim. Fighting both a blue and gold variant at the same time is also tricky, because you have two different types of attacks to dodge. In firefight, teamwork is essential in taking down the Hunter, the ideal position being one person in front of the hunter, getting its attention, while another person positions himself behind it, with a clear shot at the exposed spots. Another good strategy when facing two Hunters, is to have one stand in front of the other. When the Hunter in the rear fires, he will kill the Hunter in front of him. 

Another less well known tactic involves forcing the Hunter to jump off of the map. This can be done if you lead a hunter to an area with a bottomless pit (this only works on the maps [[Windward (Level)|Windward]], [[Chasm Ten (Level)|Chasm Ten]], and [[Alpha Site (Level)|Alpha Site]]) and throw a grenade at their feet. With tough luck on, the Hunter will attempt to dodge the grenade and jump off of the floor and into the pit, killing itself. Grenade placement must be very precise, and in an area where the hunter will jump off of the map (to the side of the hunter if the hunter is right beside the pit).

It is always good to preserve [[Fuel Rod Gun|Fuel Rod]] and [[Rocket Launcher]] ammunition in anticipation of Hunters. They will usually appear at least once during a set. These weapons are the most effective at Hunter killing, and it is possible to kill a Hunter in less than five seconds if well equipped.

==== ''[[Halo Wars]]'' ====
[[Image:HW hunters.jpg|thumb|right|200px|A pair of Hunters as depicted in Halo Wars.]]
Hunters always appear in pairs and occupy a strong anti-vehicle role<ref>http://www.halowars.com/GameInfo/Hall.aspx#Hunter</ref>. Armed with a Fuel Rod Gun, they can deliver heavy damage to UNSC ground vehicles. When one Hunter falls, it becomes much easier to kill the remaining one<ref>http://www.1up.com/do/previewPage?pager.offset=1&cId=3172311&p=</ref>. As aforementioned, they are mainly anti-vehicle: they'll get rid of [[Warthog]]s, [[Cobra]]s, [[Wolverine]]s, [[Gremlin]]s and early [[Scorpion]] versions pretty fast. However they're ineffective against infantry, and useless against aircraft. Can be trained inside the [[Hall (Covenant)|Hall]] and have several upgrades:

*'''Bonded Shield'''- Adds the iconic hunter shield which deflects projectiles.
*'''Spirit Bond'''- Increases damage output while both hunters in bonded pair are alive.
*'''Assault Beam'''- Mortar-like Fuel rod Cannon upgrades to Beam version for sustained, yet heavy amount of damage.

'''Resource''': 250

'''Minimum Tech Level''': 1

'''Population Count''': 2

== Trivia ==
*When caught in a non-fatal explosion, a Hunter will often leap into the air and perform a ridiculous-looking "crouch-jump".
 
[[Image:1216053015 Hunter.jpg|thumb|right|A Hunter preparing its [[Assault Cannon]].]]
*Hunters are responsible for security aboard a Covenant warship. One of their duties is to protect the vessel's Ship Master. Upon failing that, they are to exact revenge on his assassin.<ref>''[[Halo: Ghosts of Onyx]]'', page 190</ref>
*In ''[[Halo: The Flood]]'', it mentions that Hunters have skin and a jutting spine. This is incorrect, as they were revealed to be a compound of small worm-like creatures. However, this does not preclude the possibility that the worms may form a skin-like membrane on the outside of their colony for protection against more casual damage, and in Halo 3 a metal column can be seen after the back armor plating has been detached, perhaps forming an artificial "spine" for vertical support.
*At first, Hunters were meant to comprise the whole of [[Heretic]] forces on the [[Gas Mine]].<ref>"Essentials - Disk Three"</ref>
*In a Bungie Weekly Update, [[Frank O'Connor]] said: "''Hunter society is complex and we have seen but the tiniest fraction of it. There are some fundamental facts about Hunter biology that mean the combat type is just the tip of the iceberg.''"<ref>http://www.bungie.net/News/TopStory.aspx?story=updatefeb03</ref> This means, or at least implies, that there are other kinds of Hunters that simply have yet to be seen. For example, [[Scarabs]] are powered by these worms.
*Spartan [[William-043]] killed a Hunter by ripping out some of the [[Lekgolo]] worms in its body, hinting that a Hunter can be killed if too many of its worms are displaced.
*The Hunter resembles the enemy of the same name from [[Bungie]]'s older series, ''[[Marathon]]'', except that ''Marathon'''s Hunter has a shoulder-mounted weapon, rather than an arm-mounted weapon.
*Hunters can be killed by beserking [[Brutes]], as noticed in the ''[[Halo 2]]'' levels [[Gravemind (Level)|Gravemind]] and [[The Great Journey (Level)]]. The Covenant Separatist Hunters would try to melee the Loyalist [[Brutes]] away, but the Brutes, having a faster melee attack, would continuously melee the Hunters, eventually killing them.
*Hunters in ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'' are not harmed by [[Fuel Rod Gun]]s. This may be because you are not supposed to have [[Fuel Rod Guns]] in Campaign, or it may be a precaution meant to prevent Hunters from injuring each other when fighting in pairs. In ''Halo 3'', however, it is possible to get one Hunter to accidentally kill its mate for a no-shot kill.
*Hunters in ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'' have ranks in the actor variant [[tag]]s. One variant is called 'Hunter' and another called 'Hunter major'. In ''Halo 2'', there is no ranking system for Hunters.
*Like most other races of the [[Covenant]], Hunters' blood differs from that of [[humans]]. Mgalekgolo blood is bright, fluorescent orange and appears to have a very thick, slimy texture. It has also been noted that their blood smells strongly of burnt plastic, hinting that the make-up of their bodily fluids is drastically different from that of a human.
*In ''Halo: First Strike'', it was stated that the spikes on the Hunter's back are sensory nodes. <ref>''[[Halo: First Strike]]'', page 110</ref>
*The spikes on Hunters' backs pointed upward in ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''; in ''Halo 2'' and ''Halo 3'', they jutted out almost horizontally.
*A pair of Hunters are in charge of the security of the Oracle on ''High Charity'', as read in Contact Harvest.
*In ''[[Halo: The Flood]]'', the spikes on Hunters' backs were said to be as sharp as razors.
*Hunters are easiest to take down in ''Halo: Combat Evolved'', with one shot of the [[M6D]] to the unprotected orange stomach of the creature resulting in its death due to any shot to the exposed flesh counting as a headshot.
*Engineers can project thier energy shields onto Hunters if close by.
*In halo wars there is a glitch with the hunters hot dropping to the leader and only one comes and the other 1 doesn't.If it gets near the "fog of war" it can go into the darkness.this is a useful glitch as enemies dont attack the hunter and the hunter can attack enemies without them fighting back.

==Gallery==
<gallery>  
Image:1210404018 2170450642 7d47a8bc44.jpg   
Image:1210403895 Hunter.jpg     
Image:1217455089 Hunters.jpg
Image:1218481371 Hunter3.jpg 
Image:200px-Huntercrouched.jpg
Image:Hunterg.jpg
Image:GoldHunter2.jpg
</gallery>

==Sources==
<references/>

==Related Pages==
*[[Taming of the Hunters]]
*[[Assault Cannon]]
*[[Scarab]]
*[[lekgolo]]

{{Covenant}}
[[Category:Living Organisms]]
[[Category:The Covenant]]
@@ Line 1: / Line 1: @@
-{{Status|Canon}}
+{{Ratings}}
-{{References}}
+{{Era|H1|H2|H3|H3R|HW|FOR|TF|FS|GOO|CH|HGN|UP}}
-{{Disambig header|the species|the armor|HUNTER-class Mjolnir}}
-{{Species infobox
+{{Covenant Species Infobox
-|name=Mgalekgolo<br />(''Ophis congregatio'')
+|name=Lekgolo (''Ophis congregatio'')
-|pagename=Mgalekgolo
+|image=[[Image:Cov Hunter.jpg|300px]]
-|othernames=
-Hunter
-<br>Can o' Worms
-<br>Ogre
-<br>Worm-guts
-|image=[[File:HINF-Hunter.png|325px]]
 |homeworld=[[Te]]
-|height=12'1" (368.7 cm)-12'3" (373.4 cm)<ref name="ENC">'''[[Halo Encyclopedia (2009 edition)]]''', ''page 141''</ref>{{Ref/Reuse|wp lekgolo}}
+|height=12 feet, 9 inches (393 cm)
-|weight={{Convert|10000|lb|kg}}-{{Convert|11000|lb|kg}}{{Ref/Reuse|ENC}}{{Ref/Reuse|wp lekgolo}}
+|weight=10,500 pounds (4,762 kg)
-|distinctions=A single entity created by a unified colony of small worm-like creatures called [[Lekgolo]]
+|skincolor=*Red-orange
-|lifespan=
+*Orange blood
-|notable-group=*[[Covenant]]
+|distinctions=A single entity created by a unified colony of small worm-like creatures called [[Lekgolo]].
-*[[Swords of Sanghelios]]
+|equipment=*Heavy Metal Shield
-*[[Joyous Exultation Covenant]]
+*Mgalekgolo armor
-*[[Jul 'Mdama's Covenant]]
+*[[Assault Cannon]].
-*[[Vata 'Gajat's mercenary group]]
+|types=Combat Lekgolo Colo
-*[[Banished]]
+|notable=*[[Ogada Nosa Fasu]]
-|notable-person=
-*"[[Colony]]"
 *[[Igido Nosa Hurru]]
-*[[Magsanggalang]]
-*[[Magtanggol]]
-*[[Makipagtunggali]]
-*[[Nakagagalit]]
-*[[Ogada Nosa Fasu]]
 *[[Paruto Xida Konna]]
 *[[Waruna Xida Yotno]]
-* "[[Myriad]]"
+|othernames=
-}}
+*Hunter
-{{Quote|They're all scary and angry and they like to smash things.|[[Bungie]]<ref>[http://halo.bungie.net/news/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=BWU_081409 '''Bungie.net''', ''Bungie Weekly Update 08/14/09'']</ref>}}
+*Can of Worms
+*Big Scary Monster
+*The Thing with Spikes
+*Ogre
+*Orange Worm Crap
+*The Spiked Worm}}
-The '''Mgalekgolo'''<ref name="Bestiarum">'''[[Bestiarum]]'''</ref> (''Ophis congregatio'', meaning "serpent union"),<ref>[http://carnage.bungie.org/haloforum/halo.forum.pl?read=865756 '''HBO Forums''': ''Bestiaium Latin names translated'']</ref> is a gestalt of [[Lekgolo]], which are small worm-like creatures that group together to exponentially increase their intelligence, strength, and maneuverability. Of the myriad Lekgolo collectives, the best known is the Mgalekgolo or '''Hunter''', a bipedal form that is used for heavy assault. Ironically, the Mgalekgolo is among the least common Lekgolo configurations, but due to their formidable combat capabilities they are most commonly fielded by the [[Covenant]].{{Ref/Reuse|Bestiarum}} While the term "Mgalekgolo" is formally limited to this particular type of Lekgolo gestalt with the other forms having different names,{{Ref/Reuse|wp lekgolo}}{{Ref/Reuse|Bestiarum}} it is sometimes applied to other Lekgolo colonies as well, such as that used to operate the {{Pattern|Deutoros|Scarab}}, or the [[Goliath]]s employed by the [[Banished]].<ref>'''[[Halo: The Essential Visual Guide]]''', ''page 163''</ref>
+[[Image:Hunter1.jpg|thumb|A "Hunter" form, the most commonly encountered type of Mgalekgolo.]]
-==History==
+{{Quote|They're all scary and angry and they like to smash things.|[[Bungie]]}}
-<!--This section describes the history of the Mgalekgolo configuration; the history of the entire Lekgolo species is described in the Lekgolo article.-->
-{{Quote|The Hunters have come to our aid, Arbiter. They will fight by our side.|A [[Special Operations Sangheili]] during the [[Battle of Installation 05]].{{Ref/Reuse|TGJ}}}}
-After the formation of the [[Covenant]], early experiments with the [[Luminary|Luminaries]] reverse-engineered from the [[Forerunner Dreadnought]] in ''[[High Charity]]'' led the Covenant to the Lekgolo homeworld Te, which was located near [[Urs]], the home system of the [[Sangheili]]. While the [[San'Shyuum]] and [[Sangheili]] hoped to find a treasure trove of Forerunner artifacts, they instead found hives of Lekgolo inside orbital rings surrounding the planet. The rings were in fact the destroyed remains of an ancient Forerunner installation in orbit. The relics had been the Lekgolo's food for millennia, and the orbital rings were actually composed of digested-and-destroyed Forerunner relics that some of the Lekgolo had been consuming.<ref name="ch">'''Halo: Contact Harvest''', ''pages 269-271''</ref>
-[[File:H2A Terminals - First Hunters.jpg|thumb|250px|left|Jeht facing off against naked Mgalekgolo in their natural unarmored form.]]
+The '''Mgalekgolo'''<ref>''[[Bestiarum]]''</ref> (''Ophis congregatio'', meaning "serpent union"<ref>[http://carnage.bungie.org/haloforum/halo.forum.pl?read=865756 HBO Forums]</ref>) are a unique gestalt of smaller creatures known as [[Lekgolo]], which are tiny, orange, worm-like creatures that group together to geometrically increase their intelligence, strength, and maneuverability. [[Humans]] call the Mgalekgolo '''Hunters'''. During and after the [[Great Schism]] there was a division within the species, some aligning with the [[Covenant Separatists]] and others remaining with the [[Covenant Loyalists]].
-Enraged by the Lekgolo's "desecration" of Forerunner relics, the Covenant began a military campaign against the Lekgolo. After facing considerable difficulty eradicating the creatures,{{Ref/Reuse|Bestiarum}}{{Ref/Reuse|ch}} [[Arbiter]] [[Jeht 'Lcmutee]] was sent to study the Lekgolo for a full year on [[Rantu]], one of Te's moons. It was there that the Arbiter witnessed the Lekgolo combine into Mgalekgolo to battle him, forming around a series of rocks to support their bipedal forms.{{Ref/Game|H2A|Detail=''[[Terminal (Halo 2: Anniversary)|Terminal 8]]''}} Recognizing the potential of the gestalts, 'Lcmutee returned to ''[[High Charity]]'' and suggested that the Lekgolo be inducted into the Covenant. However, the Lekgolo initially resisted, leading to a conflict between them and the Covenant. While the Mgalekgolo won most of the time on the ground, they faced extinction and were forced into the Covenant by the superior starship technology of the Sangheili.<ref name="HCESGuide">''[[Halo: Combat Evolved: Sybex Official Strategies & Secrets]]''</ref> This event later came to be known amongst the Covenant as the "[[Taming of the Lekgolo]]". The Covenant may have used [[Sharquoi]] armor designs for the Mgalekgolo armor.<ref name="Envoy186">'''[[Halo: Envoy]]''', ''page 186''</ref>
-The Mgalekgolo gestalts, armed with thick armor plates and [[assault cannon]]s, would come to serve the Covenant as shock troops. Numerous Mgalekgolo participated in the [[Human-Covenant War]]. During the [[Great Schism]], most Mgalekgolo pairs sided with the Sangheili, though others remained with the [[Prophet of Truth]] and the main body of the Covenant.<ref name="TGJ">'''[[Halo 2]]''', campaign level ''[[The Great Journey]]''</ref> There is no known reason for the split in loyalty.{{Ref/Reuse|Bestiarum}}
+==Background==
+When the Mgalekgolo home world of [[Te]] was visited by the [[Covenant]], intent on mining its riches, they faced, instead, heavy resistance from what the humans know as "Hunters". Their physiology gave them a tremendous and unexpected advantage in combat, not only hampering, but even halting, the Covenant's advance and killing an [[Arbiter (Rank)|Arbiter]]. The Covenant were further infuriated by the Lekgolo's destruction of [[Forerunner]] artifacts during the Mgalekgolo's routine feedings.<ref>''[[Halo: Contact Harvest]]''</ref> In ground combat campaigns they were mostly victorious, despite the valiant effort of the [[Sangheili]]. The Covenant was forced to rely on [[Glassing|orbital bombardment]], a strategy against which the Mgalekgolo had little-to-no defense. Thus, to save themselves from extinction, their only choice was to agree to join the Covenant. This later came to be known as the [[Taming of the Hunters]]. Terms for their induction into the Covenant were eventually met, despite communication difficulties (which hampered the process). In their agreement to join with the Covenant, the Lekgolo worms, which fed on specific minerals, were consigned to investigate the [[Forerunner Dreadnought]] that resided in ''[[High Charity]]'' and help uncover its inner workings. Their price for this trade was access to [[Slipspace|space-travel technologies]] and exploration of the [[Covenant]] space lanes.
-During the [[Post-Covenant War conflicts|further conflicts]] in the wake of the [[Human-Covenant War]] many Mgalekgolo would fight on behalf of [[Jul 'Mdama]]'s [[Jul 'Mdama's Covenant faction|new Covenant order]] against humanity and [[Swords of Sanghelios]]. These Mgalekgolo participated in the battles of [[Requiem]], [[Nuusra]], [[Sunaion]], and [[Genesis]].{{Ref/Game|Id=H4|H4}}{{Ref/Game|H5G|H5}} Others would remain loyal to [[Arbiter]] [[Thel 'Vadam]] and his Swords of Sanghelios.<ref>[https://www.halowaypointstore.com/p/halo_swords_of_sanghelios_premium_tee.html ''Halo Waypoint Store'' - ''Swords of Sanghelios Tee'']</ref> Several would join [[Vata 'Gajat]]'s [[Vata 'Gajat's mercenary group|mercenary group]] and partake in the [[Battle of Ealen IV]].<ref>'''Halo: Escalation''', ''Issue 2''</ref> Mgalekgolo that were a part of the [[Banished]] were unusually aggressive and may have been forced into service.<ref name="log hunters">''Halo Wars 2'', ''Phoenix Logs - Hunters''</ref> These Mgalekgolo would be deployed by the Banished against the crew of the {{UNSCShip|Spirit of Fire}} during the [[Second Ark Conflict]].{{Ref/Game|HW2}} During [[Operation: SPEARBREAKER]], a Banished Mgalekgolo known as [[Colony]] led an effort to destroy the ''Spirit of Fire'' with a Forerunner {{Class|Despair|fighter}}.{{Ref/Game|HW2|Detail=[[Halo Wars 2: Operation: SPEARBREAKER|Operation: SPEARBREAKER]]}}
+When a single colony of Mgalekgolo becomes too big, the colony will divide in half to create two independent Mgalekgolo colonies. These colonies will share an extremely close and mysterious bond, referred to only as being "bond brothers", or "mates".<ref>''[[Halo: The Flood]]''</ref> The armor and [[Assault Cannon|Assault Cannons]] used by the Mgalekgolo were given to them by the Sangheili after the former joined the Covenant. Mgalekgolo that have split into "bond brothers" are recognized by spiked appendages that rise from their shoulders, which means that they are bonded to another Mgalekgolo.<ref>''[[Halo: Contact Harvest]]''</ref> Bonded Mgalekgolo colonies are dropped into battle together by the Covenant, as the Spartans learned: where you find a Hunter, there is another close by. If one of the bonded colonies is killed, the other will go into a frenzied state, much like the berserk state of a [[Jiralhanae]], or the suicidal charge of an [[Unggoy]]. If left alone for a long period of time, however, they will adopt a "split personality" of shooting followed by melee attacks.
-During the [[Battle for Zeta Halo]] in [[2560#May|May 2560]], the Master Chief faced a number of Mgalekgolo in service of the Banished. His new AI companion, [[the Weapon]], was confused when he identified the creatures as Hunters, having no idea what a Banished or a Hunter even was and then deciding that she didn't want to know the answer to what they hunted. One of the targets of opportunity that the Master Chief went after on the Halo ring was a Mgalekgolo pair known as [[Myriad]] who, much like [[Colony]], trended towards a more individualized identity rather than being a part of a subservient hivemind. Another Mgalekgolo pair were sent after the Master Chief by [[War Chief]] [[Escharum]] in the arena on the second level of the [[House of Reckoning (location)|House of Reckoning]] while the Master Chief was [[Battle of the House of Reckoning|fighting]] his way through the Banished stronghold in order to rescue [[Fernando Esparza]].{{Ref/Game|Id=Hi|Hi}}
+During the [[Battle of Onyx]], some Hunters apparently had command of lower-ranking [[Sangheili]], signifying they may have a higher military rank in the Covenant military than previously indicated.
 ==Description==
-===Culture===
+Hunters take a hulking bipedal form in the Covenant military.<ref>''Bestiarum''</ref> In this form, they are the strongest and most resilient species in the Covenant <ref>''[[Halo 3 Game Guide]]'',  http://www.microsoft.com/silverlight/halo3.aspx, On Covenant character page.</ref>. These forms stand between twelve and thirteen feet tall, but when in their combat state they crouch into between eight to eight-and-one-half feet, protecting their visible, unarmored stomach and neck. Their armor has a blue luster that makes the orange-red skin of the [[Lekgolo]] worms inside very noticeable, but the colony itself is hard to spot. They always fight in pairs due to the fact that when the colony gets too big, it splits into another Hunter form, creating an enormous bond between the two bond brothers. Their political motivation, according to the ''[[Bestiarum]]'', is completely unknown.
-{{Main|Lekgolo#Culture}}
-Mgalekgolo almost never associate or communicate with other species other than the [[Sangheili]]. They are dismissive, scornful, and arrogant to the "lesser" species, and are contemptuous to their foes.{{Ref/Reuse|HCESGuide}}
-===Anatomy and physiology===
+Hunters fight using assault cannons integrated directly into their [[armor]], and they carry an enormous, and nearly impervious metal shield made of an unknown alloy derived from the same material that forms Covenant warship hulls. This shield protects them from almost every form of plasma-based or ballistic weaponry available to Covenant and [[human]] infantry alike, and is a powerful [[melee]] tool capable of crushing anything in its path and allowing the Mgalekgolo to sweep away most enemies in close combat. The Hunter can also gain a surprising burst of speed when it moves in for a melee kill.
-[[File:Mgalekgolo back.jpg|250px|thumb|[[Lekgolo]] worms on a Mgalekgolo's exposed back.]]
-{{main|Lekgolo}}
-A Mgalekgolo is not a single organism, but rather a collective of small, orange, eel-like creatures called [[Lekgolo]]. In order to form a Mgalekgolo, dozens of individual Lekgolo bond with one another both physically and neurologically to form a single "hive-minded" community.<ref>'''Halo: Contact Harvest''', ''page 267''</ref> The Mgalekgolo is the most common form seen in combat during the [[Human-Covenant War]], but is actually one of the rarer and smaller forms in the Lekgolo society, used primarily in interaction with the Covenant hierarchy.{{Ref/Reuse|Bestiarum}} Their primary combat tactic is an approximation of a hunter-killer formation, hence the name "Hunter".<ref name="wp lekgolo">[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/species/lekgolo-mgalekgolo-hunter '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Lekgolo/Mgalekgolo'']</ref> Because of their combined neural nets' sensitivity to their surroundings, Mgalekgolo can think and work as an effective combat unit without even using verbal communication. They can also locate their enemies even without directly "seeing" them, such as when they are facing the opposite direction.
-Mgalekgolo do not use vocal chords to speak, but instead vibrate their bodies to make a low rumble to produce speech. They are capable of mimicking the language of other species, forming words and sentences that are "felt" rather than heard. Their quiet nature among other races of the Covenant is probably a result of difficulty speaking with other Covenant races. The known names of some Mgalekgolo seem to imply that they use very simple vowels and only a few consonants.
+The assault cannon the Hunter wields operates in two modes; one firing a single explosive capsule of incendiary fluid<ref>''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''</ref>, the other spraying the fluid out like a beam.<ref>''[[Halo 2]]''</ref><ref>''[[Halo 3]]''</ref> The beam is more devastating than the single explosive shot, because this attack lasts longer and so wide spread damage can be done to more than just one enemy, or a single enemy can be badly injured or even killed. Hunters cannot drive any known vehicles except [[Type-47 Ultra Heavy Assault Platform|Scarabs]], in which a colony is infused into the circuitry of the vehicle.
-Mgalekgolo usually stand between twelve to thirteen feet tall, but during combat they hunch themselves over to protect their vulnerable neck and midsection, reducing their height to roughly eight feet. They fight using [[assault cannon]]s integrated directly into their armor, and they carry an enormous two-ton pavise shield made of an alloy derived from the same [[Nanolaminate hull plating|material]] that forms Covenant warship hulls.{{Ref/Reuse|wp lekgolo}} Mgalekgolo body armor is eight centimeters thick, with the shield being even thicker.<ref>'''Halo: Ghosts of Onyx''', ''page 218''</ref> Their shields and armor protect them from almost every form of [[plasma weaponry|plasma-based]] or ballistic weaponry available to Covenant and human infantry alike, and the shield is a powerful [[melee]] tool capable of crushing anything in its path and allowing the Mgalekgolo to neutralize most enemies in close combat. However their heavy protection is inadequate against dedicated anti-tank weapons, with [[M19 surface-to-surface missile|102mm HEAT warheads]],<ref>'''Halo: The Flood''', ''page 183''</ref> [[M149 Magellan|105mm recoiless rifles]],<ref>'''Halo: The Flood''', ''page 363''</ref> and [[M512 smooth-bore high-velocity cannon|90mm high-velocity tank cannons]] taking them out with ease.<ref>'''Halo: The Flood''', ''page 242''</ref> The [[M149 Magellan]] 105mm recoiless rifle is even capable of over-penetrating both the pavise and the armor with a delayed fuse round.<ref>'''[[Halo Legends]]''': ''[[Prototype]]''</ref> There are a few weak spots in the armor however, such as the lower back where they are vulnerable to regular weaponry. However, due to their sheer size and speed, it is difficult for enemies to hit these spots. Their arm-mounted shield was the basis for an avenue of [[UNSC]] research which produced an [[UNSC shield|early prototype]] shield of human origin.{{Ref/Game|H2V|Easy difficulty shield ([[:File:H2V EasyDifficulty.png|File link]])}}
+==Communication==
+None of the specifics of the Hunters' language are known. The best examples are seen in the Hunters' naming. It seems they use very simple vowels, and few consonants; not near the same amount as the English alphabet. It is known, however, that they do not use vocal cords to speak. Instead, they seem to vibrate the Lekgolo in their bodies to make sounds. Their quiet nature among the Covenant is either a product of them having difficulty speaking with other Covenant races, or they are mostly contemptuous of all Covenant races, except the [[Sangheili]]. Hunters' speech can be heard in all the Halo games, and changes very little between each game. They usually just make very deep, low rumbling noises when sighting enemies or when wounded. When dying, they seem to emit a low-pitched scream. They also seem to chuckle after a kill. Aside from that, Hunters barely talk. They are, however, capable of mimicking the language of other species via subsonic vibrations, forming words and sentences that are "felt" rather than "heard".<ref>''Halo: Ghosts of Onyx'', page 191</ref><ref>[[http://www.bungie.net/projects/odst/guide.aspx ''Halo 3: ODST'' Field Guide]</ref>
-The assault cannon the Mgalekgolo wields operates in two modes; one firing a single explosive capsule of incendiary fluid,{{Ref/Reuse|H4}}<ref>'''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'''</ref>{{Ref/Reuse|ODST}} the other spraying the fluid out like a beam.{{Ref/Game|Id=H5G|H5G}}<ref name="H2">'''[[Halo 2]]'''</ref><ref name="H3">'''[[Halo 3]]'''</ref>
+==Culture==
+Lekgolo almost never associate, or even communicate, with other [[Covenant]] client races, except for the [[Sangheili]], since they appreciate and acknowledge their similar warrior thoughts and respect the Elite's high status among Covenant society and their adeptness in combat. However, they are dismissive, scornful, and arrogant to the "lesser" Covenant races like [[Unggoy]] and [[Kig-Yar]] and are utterly contemptuous of their foes. Hunters will not hesitate to run over a [[Kig-yar|Jackal]] as seen at the [[Battle of Sigma Octanus IV]]. In [[Halo 3: ODST]] Hunters will attack regardless of what is in the way. This is notable on the final mission, if a Hunter is obstructed by another Covenant soldier the Hunter will still attack, often killing lesser enemies.
-===Bond brothers===
+Many of the Covenant are mystified and confused by the Mgalekgolo and indeed their way of life is almost as alien to them as the [[Flood]]. A Sangheili [[Fleet Master]] once noted that they were known to tear opponents apart with their "bare hands" whilst in a blood frenzy and then pause to recite war poetry.<ref>''[[Ghosts of Onyx]]''</ref> It has also been said that Hunters meditate in their spare time, or before battle. During the [[Covenant Civil War]], most Hunter pairs sided with the Sangheili and the [[Covenant Separatists]], but some sided with the [[Prophet of Truth]] and the [[Covenant Loyalists]]. There is no known reason for the split in loyalty, but it is likely due to their deep respect for the Elites from the events of the Taming of the Hunters, or because they acknowledge the Elites' similar warrior thoughts. However, in ''Halo 3'', no Hunters are ever seen supporting [[John-117|Master Chief]], possibly due to him being human, their hatred for him, or all the Hunter mates that followed the elites died in battle. The same applies for the Elites, as [[Brute]] allied Hunters will simply see them as enemies. It is also possible that in the making of ''[[Halo 3]]'', [[Bungie]] did not want to confuse players by having them with both the Separatists and the [[Loyalists]], so they were only shown as Loyalists.
-When a single Mgalekgolo becomes too big, the colony will divide in half to create two independent Lekgolo colonies. These colonies will share an extremely close and mysterious bond, referred to only as being "bond brothers", or "mates".<ref name="Halo: The Flood">'''Halo: The Flood''', ''"Chapter ??"'', ''page ??''</ref> Mgalekgolo that have split into "bond brothers" are recognized by spiked appendages that rise from their shoulders, which means that they are bonded to another Mgalekgolo.{{Ref/Reuse|ch}} Bonded Mgalekgolo colonies are dropped into battle together by the Covenant, as the [[SPARTAN-II program|Spartans]] learned: where you find a Mgalekgolo, there is always another close by. If one of the bonded colonies is killed, the other will go into a frenzied state, much like the berserk state of a [[Jiralhanae]], or the suicidal charge of a desperate Unggoy. If left alone for a long period of time, however, they will adopt a "tactical split personality" of shooting followed by melee attacks. On one occasion a Mgalekgolo whose bond brother was killed went berserk killing its allies aboard the crashed ''[[Radiant Perception]]'' and eventually became suicidal.<ref name="SAS">'''[[Halo: Smoke and Shadow]]''', ''page ???''</ref>
-===Naming===
+==Naming==
-Mgalekgolo have three names: a personal name, a bond name, and a line name. When written with the Roman or Latin alphabet, the three names can be transposed together as one single name or separated by spaces.
+Hunters have three names: a personal name, a bond name, and a line name. The personal name is given at their "birth". The line name represents the genetic heritage, being the name of the most successful Mgalekgolo of his ancestors. If one reaches a certain level of status, his offspring will have his personal name as their line name. The bond name, or their middle name, is taken between bonded pairs, colonies that must split into two due to excessive size. Examples of some Hunter names include [[Igido Nosa Hurru]] and [[Ogada Nosa Fasu]]. From the few Hunter names that have appeared in the novels, it seems that the given name has three syllables, but the bond name and line name only have two syllables. This may be another [[7]] reference, as 3 + 2 + 2 = 7.
-*The personal name is given at their "birth".{{Ref/Reuse|HCESGuide}}
-*The bond name, or their middle name, is taken between bonded pairs. Examples of some Mgalekgolo names include [[Igido Nosa Hurru]] and [[Ogada Nosa Fasu]].<ref>'''[[Halo: The Flood]]''', ''page 163''</ref>
-*The line name represents the genetic heritage, being the name of the most successful Mgalekgolo of its ancestors. If one reaches a certain level of status, its offspring will have its personal name as their line name.{{Ref/Reuse|HCESGuide}}
-==Ranking system==
+However, it is not known why the line name is not three syllables, considering that the ancestor in question's given name would be three syllables. It is most likely not always three syllables or the name is edited (a syllable is possibly taken away) before the offspring is given the line name.
-[[File:ODST TayariPlaza06.jpg|thumb|250px|[[Edward Buck]] fighting a [[Mgalekgolo Flak|golden Hunter]] on [[Tayari Plaza]].]]
-Unlike most Covenant forces, Mgalekgolo seem to possess presumably no visible rank. As they are deployed more like equipment or weapons platforms rather than conventional troops, rank may simply not apply for them.{{citation needed}}
-However, they can be deployed independently of other Covenant troops, which may indicate that a level of independence and responsibility may be granted, thus meaning that they may have a high enough rank to be trusted by themselves. During the [[Battle of Sigma Octanus IV]], Mgalekgolo are seen guarding the crystal in [[Côte d'Azur]], which is retrieved by [[Blue Team]]. One of these Mgalekgolo killed a Kig-Yar by stepping on it,<ref>'''Halo: The Fall of Reach''', ''page 222''</ref> demonstrating the Lekgolo colonies' characteristic disregard for the lives of other species, whom they generally view as annoyances rather than allies.{{Ref/Reuse|wp lekgolo}} During the [[Onyx Conflict]], some Mgalekgolo apparently had command of lower-ranking Sangheili, even killing one of them for failing to follow orders, signifying they may have a higher military rank in the Covenant military than previously indicated.<ref>'''Halo: Ghosts of Onyx''', ''page 358''</ref>
+== Anatomy and Physiology ==
-During the [[Battle of Mombasa]], Mgalekgolo appeared in two different forms in two different colors: the normal blue-armored Mgalekgolo that are armed with an [[assault cannon]] that fires a continuous stream of radioactive incendiary gel, and a [[Mgalekgolo Flak|gold-armored Mgalekgolo]] armed with an assault cannon that fires a single bolt of radioactive incendiary gel.<ref name="ODST">'''[[Halo 3: ODST]]'''</ref>
+[[Image:Scarab_Lekgolo.jpg|160px|thumb|left|[[Lekgolo]] worms inside a [[Scarab]] shell.]]
-Several Mgalekgolo under the command of [[Jul 'Mdama's Covenant]] were given the leading rank of [[Swarmlord]], and their prowess led them to be employed as simulated enemies in UNSC [[War Games]].{{Ref/Mode|Id=H5G|H5G|Warzone}}
+Hunters are not a single organism, but rather are composed of multiple small, orange, eel-like beings called [[Lekgolo]], that form a single collective consciousness and act as one, a single "hive-mind", similar to the structure of operation in the flood. In other words they are a communal organism working together to perform specific tasks. Mgalekgolo are capable of manifesting in several different iterations according to what goal they are striving to achieve and the amount of [[Lekgolo]] worms that are present. The Hunter is the most common form seen in combat during the [[Human-Covenant War]], but is actually one of the more rare forms in the Lekgolo society. This Mgalekgolo is employed by the Covenant as heavy infantry. Their society is predominated by this combination of being able to create exponentially more intelligent creatures, and the actual "Hunter" organism is one of the rarer and smaller forms to be found, used primarily in interaction with the Covenant hierarchy.
-By 2559, the Banished also utilized two specialist Mgalekgolo ranks, the defensive [[Mgalekgolo Ironclad]] and the aggressive [[Mgalekgolo Scarred]]{{Ref/Mode|Id=HW2|HW2|Blitz}}, in addition to the standard Mgalekgolo. The Banished Lekgolo forces on the [[Ark]] were also found to be directed by powerful [[Mgalekgolo Captain]]s, under the command of the pair known as "Colony". These Captains are linked directly to "Colony" and Banished Lekgolo colonies operate at full efficiency while Captains are on the field.<ref name="LML">[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/leggo-my-lekgolo '''Halo Waypoint''' ''Canon Fodder - Leggo my Lekgolo'']</ref> During the [[Battle for Zeta Halo]], the Banished also deployed the red armored, more aggressive rank of [[Ardent Mgalekgolo]].{{Ref/Mode|Id=HI|HI|Campaign}}
+The almost indestructible armor that covers them serves the purpose of protecting the Lekgolo colony, although it doesn't cover their back very well.
-{{Clear}}
-==Trivia==
+[[File:Hunter 3.jpg|thumb|160px|A [[Hunter]] fighting in a building on the ''[[Halo 3]]'' level, "[[The Covenant (Level)|The Covenant]]".]]
-===Production notes===
-{{Other languages
-|fr={{Tooltip|''Les Hunters''|(Anglicism)}} in ''Halo: Combat Evolved''.<br>
-{{Tooltip|''Les Chasseurs''|The Hunters}} in all media since ''Halo 2''.
-|es={{Tooltip|''Los cazadores''|The Hunters}} in ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' and ''Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary''.<br>
-{{Tooltip|''Los Hunters''|Anglicism}} in all media since ''Halo 2''.
-}}
-{{Linkbox|gallery=yes|gameplay=yes}}
-*''Halo: The Flood'', mentions that Mgalekgolo have skin and a jutting spine. This is incorrect, as they were later revealed to be a compound of small worm-like creatures. However, this does not preclude the possibility that the worms may form a skin-like membrane on the outside of their colony for protection against more casual damage, and in ''Halo 3 ''a metal column can be seen after the back armor plating has been detached, perhaps forming an artificial "spine" for vertical support. Strangely, the reference to Mgalekgolo having spines was kept in the 2010 re-release of the novel.<ref>'''Halo: The Flood''' (2010), page 181</ref>
-*At first, Mgalekgolo were meant to comprise the whole of [[Sesa 'Refumee's heretic faction|Heretic]] forces on the [[Threshold gas mine]].<ref>'''[[Halo 3 Essentials]]''': ''Disk ??''</ref>
-*The Mgalekgolo was inspired by the [[marathongame:Pfhor|Pfhor]] [[marathongame:Hunter|Hunter]] from the ''[[Marathon]]'' series, as well as by the [[marathongame:Drinniol|Drinniol]], or Hulk, from the original ''Marathon''. However, the Pfhor Hunter is actually a class of power armored soldier with a shoulder-mounted cannon rather than an arm-mounted cannon. The Drinniol also inspired the creation of the [[Sharquoi|Drinol]], Covenant species that was designed for ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' but was cut during development.
-*No Mgalekgolo are ever seen supporting the [[John-117|Master Chief]] during the events of ''[[Halo 3]]''. This is because in the making of ''Halo 3'', [[Bungie]] did not want to confuse players by having them with both allies and enemies.
-*Despite appearing on the cover of ''[[Halo: Spartan Assault]]'' none actually appear in game.
-*In the [[Halo Legends]] episode ''[[The Duel]]'', the Mgalekgolo are shown to be at least 50 feet tall. This was explained by [[Frank O'Connor]] saying that a Hunter's appearance changes due to the gravity and environment.
-===Gameplay===
+Because of their make-up of several hundred "eels" instead of being a single large organism, the Lekgolo are one of the only species in the Covenant that cannot be assimilated by the Flood, as their unique physiology does not allow the organism to access a central nervous system or control them to any capacity. As such, there has never been a Hunter [[Combat Form]], though the flesh of the Lekgolo can most likely be used by the Flood simply for its biomass.
-*When combating Mgalekgolo, a player can 'leapfrog' the charging melee attack, either jumping above or to the side of the Mgalekgolo. This exposes the rear armor to a quick shotgun blast or grenade stick, often resulting in death on lower difficulties. Although this tactic does not work as well on ''Halo 3: ODST'', simply circling around behind the Mglekgolo at the right time works the same way.
-*In ''[[Halo 3]]'', it is possible to splatter a Mgalekgolo with an [[M274 Mongoose]].
-*In ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'', Mgalekgolo are not harmed by [[Unidentified fuel rod gun|fuel rod gun]]s. This may be because you're not supposed to have fuel rod guns in campaign, or it may be a precaution meant to prevent Mgalekgolo from injuring each other when fighting.
-*Mgalekgolo have ranks in the actor variant [[tag]]s. One variant is called 'Hunter' and another called 'Hunter major'.
-*In ''Halo: Combat Evolved'', a single shot from a [[M6D Magnum|pistol]] or [[SRS99C-S2 AM sniper rifle|sniper rifle]] to any unarmored section will kill a Mgalekgolo; this is because Bungie programmed the Mgalekgolo's exposed flesh as a "head."
-*In ''[[Halo 2]]'', a Mgalekgolo's mass is enough to kill other characters if they push them against a surface. This can sometimes be seen in [[The Great Journey]], where friendly Mgalekgolo may accidentally crush Sangheili against walls.
-*In ''[[Halo 2]]'', it is impossible to kill or even damage Mgalekgolo with melee attacks.
-*In ''[[Halo Wars]]'', a Mgalekgolo's shield can deflect projectiles that would almost always kill them in previous games, like [[Zurdo-pattern Wraith|Wraith]] Mortars and shots from the [[M808B Scorpion]]'s main cannon.
-*In ''[[Halo: Reach]]'', Mgalekgolo have received a huge graphical overhaul. They are much more textured, are larger, have Forerunner symbols and emblems on their armor and appear to have some kind of eyes on their helmets.
-*Mgalekgolo are also much tougher in ''Reach''. They are capable of surviving multiple explosive hits and even repeated plasma grenade sticks. Their back armor is much more durable, making their weak point harder to expose. They will also raise their shield vertically when being attacked from the front, covering both their neck and mid-section to protect themselves from incoming fire and are less likely to turn around and expose their back to the player.
-*In ''Halo: Reach'', a near-miss from a Mgalekgolo's melee will cause the player's screen to violently shake.
-*Although the Mgalekgolo present in ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary]]'' use the ''Halo: Reach'' skin, they are almost half the size of their ''Halo: Reach'' counterparts due to the much smaller skeleton frame used in the original game. Their abdomens also appear to be armored, though this armor doesn't protect from damage and it's purely cosmetic.
-*In ''[[Halo 4]]'', Mgalekgolo perform melee attacks much faster than their predecessors, making it harder to dodge them. Like in ''Halo Reach'', a near-miss from a melee will cause the player's screen to violently shake.
-*In ''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]'', Mgalekgolo received a new skin that also incorporates abdominal armor, though this armor is also purely cosmetic and offers no protection whatsoever.
-*In ''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]'', Mgalekgolo are far more lethal than their predecessors. Their melee strikes are now nearly impossible to dodge. They also utilize both firing modes of their assault cannons. They also appear to be far more durable than their predecessors. In addition, when one is killed, the remaining Mgalekgolo will go into a "rage", start emitting green electrical sparks, move faster and more aggressively, and will fire its assault cannon's close range attack twice in each volley.
-*In ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' and ''[[Halo 3: ODST]]'', players can avoid Hunters at certain points during [[Assault on the Control Room]] and [[Mombasa Streets]], where some Hunters are "asleep" despite ostensibly being in their combat stance. The Hunters will not notice if the player is nearby unless the player attacks them or makes noises near them, similar to the way sleeping Grunts can be awakened by noises. In the ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'' level [[Assault on the Control Room]] on the lower level of the control room, the player can score a double-kill with one shot from a sniper rifle if they manage to catch a pair of "asleep" Hunters off-guard.
-*In ''Halo: Combat Evolved'', splatter kills against Hunters are extremely easy due to the game mechanics allowing a small prod to instantly kill them. They often choose to avoid vehicles rather than engaging them head-on.
-*In ''Halo: Combat Evolved'', when engaging [[Pod infector]]s at close range, Hunters will often try to shoot rather than melee them, killing themselves in the process. This could be due to their size making it difficult for them to aim properly.
-*In ''Halo: Combat Evolved'', Hunters are far more vulnerable than they are in later games. On any difficulty (even Legendary), they can be killed with a single shot to any unarmored part of their bodies. They are so vulnerable that even a single pistol shot can kill them.
-*In later games, the best strategy for dealing with Hunters when there is no access to a weapon such as a [[M41 SPNKR|rocket launcher]] is to stick them with a {{Pattern|Anskum|plasma grenade}}. The explosion will blow the back of their armor above the weak spot off, giving the player a wider area to target with their weapons. However, they still remain difficult to kill due to the need to dodge their attacks while aiming for the weak spot.
-*In the ''Halo: Reach'' level ''[[New Alexandria]]'', the player runs into a situation where they fight four Hunters at once instead of just two. There is a rocket launcher available in the room this occurs in which is sufficient with proper targeting.
-*In ''Halo 3: ODST'', Hunters are fairly easy to deal with compared to the later games in the ''Halo'' series, likely reflecting the fact that the player is no longer controlling a Spartan and is instead controlling weaker ODSTs. On lower difficulties at least, a good strategy is to blow off the back of a Hunter's armor with a {{Pattern|Anskum|plasma grenade}} and then rake their exposed back with fire. In that game, it doesn't take much fire to kill one once their back is fully exposed, especially compared to ''Halo: Reach'' when in a similar situation, Hunters are extremely hard to kill.
-*A good weapon to use against Hunters when a rocket launcher or [[fuel rod gun]] is not available is a shotgun, particularly after a Hunter's armor has been blown off in the back. Ideal for close-range combat, shotgun blasts inflict more damage than weapons such as an assault rifle. In order to get a Hunter to expose their weakness, a player typically needs to get close enough to make the Hunter charge, generally ending with them in close proximity even when the Hunter is vulnerable. At this kind of proximity, a shotgun is ideal for its stopping power and close-combat effectiveness. In the ''Halo: Reach'' levels ''[[ONI: Sword Base]]'' and ''[[The Pillar of Autumn (Halo: Reach level)|The Pillar of Autumn]]'', shotguns can be found in close proximity to where the player encounters and fights Hunters.
-===Miscellaneous===
+The collection of eels that make up a Hunter's body are unintelligent at the most basic level, but can form complex thoughts and emerge as a conscious individual when they combine into larger masses that communicate through chemical and electrical means.
-*Like most other races of the Covenant, Mgalekgolo's [[blood]] differs from that of humans. Mgalekgolo blood is bright, fluorescent orange and appears to have a very thick, slimy texture. It has also been noted that their blood smells strongly of burnt plastic, hinting that the make-up of their bodily fluids is drastically different from that of a [[human]].
+The neural net that Hunters develop enables them to be incredibly strong and very sensitive to all things within a 1,000 foot line pointing out from non-combat form, and a half sphere that extends 500 feet in combat form{{Verify_source}}. This could explain why Hunters sometimes can locate the Master Chief even when they cannot see him, or when they are facing the opposite direction. This also explains why Hunters can think and work as an effective combat unit without even using verbal communication.
+Hunters generally growl during battle but will sometimes talk and make remarks like the other Covenant species. Instead of using vocal chords, like other Covenant species, they vibrate their bodies to make a low rumble that is described as "more felt than heard" to produce speech.<ref>''[[Halo: Ghosts of Onyx]]'', pages 190-191</ref>
+It is theorized that Hunters reproduce asexually similar to earthworms; however there is no way to be certain. If true, calling Hunter pairs "mates" would only make sense in term for the pairing of two, not actually mating.
+== Religion ==
+All that can be said for certain about Mgalekgolo religious beliefs is that they vary. While the Lekgolo joined the Covenant for its access to space trade routes and starships, rather than any real dedication to the Great Journey, at least some hold a concept of an "afterlife".<ref>''[[Bestiarum]]''</ref><ref>''[[Halo: The Flood]]''</ref> Other Lekgolo meditate in their spare time, or recite war poetry before or after battle, showing a more refined nature than would be believed of the hulking, savage warriors.<ref>''[[Halo: Ghosts of Onyx]]''</ref> The fact that some allied themselves with the [[Sangheili]] during the [[Great Schism]], while others remained with the [[Covenant Loyalists]], is further evidence that individual beliefs play a major part in Mgalekgolo religion.<ref>''[[Halo 3]]''</ref> Anything further than this is speculation, Lekgolo culture is extremely reclusive, and even their fellow Covenant know little about them other than that they continue to follow their own cultural traditions, rather than the homogenized religion of the wider Covenant.<ref>[http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&cid=697 The Covenant Primer: Best of The Bestiary]</ref>
+===Ranking System===
+Unlike other Covenant forces, Hunters seem to possess no visible rank. They are deployed as support troops rather than as baseline soldiers, which may therefore indicate that a rank is unnecessary as they are used as equipment rather than soldiers. They seem to be of a low rank, but only take commands from Prophets or Elites.
+However, they can be deployed independently of other Covenant troops, which may indicate that a level of independence and responsibility may be granted, thus meaning that they may have a high enough rank to be trusted by themselves. In ''[[Halo: Fall of Reach]]'', Mgalekgolo are seen guarding the crystal in [[Cote d'Azur]], which is retrieved by [[Blue Team]]. As they are guarding such a highly valued target, they may be of a higher rank than other Hunter pairs. Also they killed a [[Jackal]] by stepping on it, which may show that they are higher in rank than the Jackals.
+[[Image:Gold Hunter.png|right|thumb|180px|A pair of Gold Hunters in ''[[Halo 3: ODST]]''.]]
+In ''Halo 3: ODST'', a new type of Hunter appears. Known as Spec-Ops Hunters, These wear golden armor and are armed with mortar-firing Assault Cannons, similar to the model featured in [[Halo: Combat Evolved]]. It is believed that they are more experienced in combat&nbsp;than the normal blue-armored Hunters.
+Hunters wearing red armor are seen guarding the [[Forerunner Dreadnought]] in [[High Charity]]{{Verify_source}}.
+=== Combat ===
+==== ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'' ====
+A Hunter's armor is extremely resilient, is resistant to most small arms fire, and significantly reduces the damage they take from enemy projectiles (on Normal difficulty, a Hunter can still be killed with a few dozen pistol or plasma shots to the armor). However, in later games the armor is completely immune to small arms fire, and projectiles simply bounce off it harmlessly.
+However, they have an exploitable weak spot (in which it will take a single pistol shot to kill them), the exposed orange flesh located in their midsections and necks. While they keep the exposed areas on the fronts of their bodies well-covered with their shields, rarely giving the player an opening unless the Hunter tries to melee them, the creature's backs have a large exposed area that is extremely vulnerable. If a rocket is fired at them, it does not matter where you are aiming, it will always kill with one shot (unless you are in [[Legendary]] and sometimes [[Heroic]] mode, in which case it may take two rockets). Another tactic available is to shoot the green sections of their [[Assault Cannon]] (only successful with the [[pistol]]).
+In addition, while not on alert to an enemy's presence they assume a stance where their neck and midsection is especially vulnerable. While firearms are incapable of penetrating a Hunter's armor, it cannot stand up to heavy weapons such as rockets and artillery.
+In ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'', Hunters were difficult to defeat; their [[A.I.]] was quick and decisive, their shots and melees fast and elegant, and they could move fast enough to run down a back-pedaling [[SPARTAN]], but their melee could be dodged with proper skill. A tactic against Hunters that might be better when you're only fighting a single one is when you get very close to the Hunter to make it charge you. If you have an [[M6D]], it is very useful whereas the [[sniper rifle]] or anything else might be less effective. Certainly not the [[rocket launcher]] for the range. So, when it charges you and lifts up its shield to [[melee]] you, then it can shoot in the exposed orange region of its stomach.
+Interestingly in ''[[Halo PC]]'', if you don't move from your position while a Hunter is firing at you, it is very unlikely that it will hit you with its Assault Cannon.
+Other weapons, especially the [[shotgun]] and [[SRS99C-S2 AM Sniper Rifle|sniper rifle]] for very short and very long distances respectively, were equally deadly. The rocket launcher was always effective, but never particularly necessary. Grenades were only moderately effective, as the Hunter could withstand a half-dozen grenade blasts.
+[[Plasma]] weapons, with the exception of the plasma rifle on lower difficulties, were often ineffective, as was the [[needler]]. The [[MA5B Assault Rifle]] takes too long to make a kill so other weapons were far more useful.
+On Legendary, some players regarded Hunters as one of the most challenging enemies in the game (killing them is a difficulty, even when armed with the most appropriate of weapons). Inexperienced or careless players can fall victim to the Hunters' attacks, which, while easy to anticipate, are rather quick and powerful.
+A unique way to kill a Hunter, (which does not work in ''Halo 2'') is to melee it over and over again and can be done to the front of the Hunter. But it is highly recommended to hit from behind, as it is easier for them to attack what's in front of them.
+Another way to kill a hunter is to jump on the hunter while he is doing a melee, and shoot the hunter's vulnerable back with a pistol, which would badly damage, if not kill, the hunter. However, often the range you jump would be so far that accurately shooting at the hunter is difficult.
+[[Image:Hunter4.jpg|thumb|left|[[SPARTAN-II Program|SPARTAN-IIs]] about to exploit the Hunter's main weak spot: their unprotected backs in ''[[Halo: CE]]''.]]
+Hunters really gained the upper hand in the cramped hallways of the ''[[Truth and Reconciliation]]'' and the [[The Maw (Level)|''Pillar of Autumn'']], where there was little space to dodge the fuel rods or crushing melee blows, and no room to utilize either a sniper rifle or rocket launcher to defeat them. Still, these levels were full of shotgun or pistol ammo and these weapons are reasonably useful against Hunters at close range, especially the pistol.
+If one were to stand far away from the Hunter, it might bring to bear its Assault Cannon. Its projectile has a high velocity, but it can be dodged at a distance with only minor skill. It is also easy to anticipate, as the barrel of the weapon glows bright green before firing. If one were in melee range of the Hunter, it might also wield its shield in as a powerful melee weapon, resulting in serious injury, if not death for the intended target. These attacks can be, at most times, simple to avoid. In ''[[Halo 2]]'' and ''[[Halo 3]]'', however, it seems the Hunters have downgraded their weapons. Instead of dealing all the damage on impact, the damage is spread out over a second time span, in the form of a continuous beam. The beam also travels slower, and has a much lower rate of fire, making it very easy to avoid.
+On certain levels, it is possible to defeat Hunters by standing in front of a cliff and then sidestepping them as they attempt a melee attack. If timed correctly, the Hunter, unable to stall its momentum, will fall from the precipice to its death.
+Hunters are, like all other enemies in ''Halo: Combat Evolved'', extremely vulnerable to vehicle collisions. A [[Warthog]] can kill a Hunter instantly with even the slightest nudge or tap. This was due to the physics engine of the game, which could not determine the difference between a fast moving and a slow moving vehicle; hence all vehicle contact with an enemy on foot resulted in instant death. A Hunter could attempt a large leap away from the vehicle, however, which can sometimes result in the Hunter getting away temporarily. However, a Hunter's assault cannon shot can flip a warthog easily.
+Lining up Hunters so that they shoot themselves is dangerous, difficult, and is not advised because the alternatives are rather simple on most levels, even on Legendary.
+However, if you have more than two plasma grenades and light fire weapons like the assault rifle, hunters are no problem. Just stick the plasma grenades to them (the shield reflects the grenades), and shoot the hunter with your weapon until the grenades go off. For most, that usually kills them.
+==== ''[[Halo 2]]'' ====
+[[Image:Dgodt Visr Foltz.PNG|thumb|right|A Hunter on the ''[[Halo 2]]'' level, "[[The Great Journey (Level)|The Great Journey]]".]]
+The Hunters underwent a number of changes for ''[[Halo 2]]''. For example, they will react more aggressively to the loss of their bond brother. They appear in fewer numbers, and they are for the most part easier and less dangerous than in ''Halo: CE''. They are also invulnerable to melee attacks, whereas in ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'', melees would actually cause damage to the hunter.
+[[Image:H2_hunter_assaultcannon.jpg|thumb|right|A Hunter's assault cannon as mounted on its arm, in ''[[Halo 2]]''.]]
+The most notable change is their new weapon: although similar to the old [[Fuel Rod Gun]]-like Assault Cannon, the new assault cannon fires a continuous beam of green incendiary gel rather than an arcing projectile. The weapon cannot fire as often, and it has a much lower velocity, making it easy to avoid.
+In addition, the Hunters are over 20% larger<ref>''[[The Art of Halo]]'', Creating a Virtual World</ref> and 10% slower, making it much easier to target. Their increased strengths go towards your advantage when playing as the Arbiter; the Hunters are then powerful and durable allies.
+They have gained a new move, too: the ability to attack an enemy behind them. This effectively makes the old strategy of "dodge-and-fire" less effective.
+Finally, the Hunters have much more health. Most small arms do rather moderate damage against them, in contrast to the [[M6D]]'s ability to kill them in a single shot. For example, on [[Normal]] difficulty, it takes 11 shots from the [[M6C Magnum Sidearm]], 6 full bursts from the [[BR55 Battle Rifle|battle rifle]], or 10 shots from the [[Covenant carbine]] to kill a Hunter.
+On [[Heroic]] and lower difficulties, sniper weapons will kill a Hunter in a single shot, as do machine gun turrets and [[plasma cannon]]s. However, on Legendary, not a single weapon can kill them in one hit. A [[SRS99C-S2 AM Sniper Rifle]] or [[beam rifle]] will take two shots to kill a Hunter on [[Legendary]].
+Often, the most effective weapon against them is the one that does the most damage: the [[rocket launcher]] is greatly effective, as is the [[fuel rod cannon]]. While these weapons take two and three shots respectively to kill a Hunter on Legendary, they can damage one regardless of where it hits it. If lacking a sniper rifle and a heavy weapon, simply switch to the Covenant carbine or the battle rifle (BR's slightly stronger). To put one down, aim for the exposed flesh to and empty your rounds. It should take around a magazine (maybe a magazine and a half on Legendary) to kill one.
+''Note: that in large areas without cover, you may invariably lose. Do not use the energy sword, as it is worse than useless (it brings you to close quarters with the Hunter, where it can easily beat you down).''
+Grenades still do little damage against Hunters and it will usually take a large amount of them to take one down. However, grenades, hand held or fired from the [[Brute Shot]], will disorient a Hunter, giving the player an opportunity to shoot at its exposed flesh. Perhaps the most effective method to defeat a Hunter would be to stick a [[Plasma Grenade]] to it and shoot it in its exposed back with a beam rifle or sniper rifle, as a plasma grenade in this fashion will make the Hunter do a 180 degree turn or freeze on the spot. Another interesting change from [[Halo: Combat Evolved|''Halo: CE'']] is that plasma grenades now stick to the Hunters' shields, whereas in ''Halo: CE'' they simply bounced off if not stuck elsewhere. Plasma grenades can also be used to kill a Hunter by sticking it in the back or stomach, which due to the arc of the throw, is not very difficult. This also gives the player time to shoot them with another weapon.
+If an enemy gets too close, the Hunter will attempt a clumsy but dangerous melee attack with its shield, severely injuring if not killing the enemy. Once its partner is killed, the Hunter becomes much more aggressive and will chase the player, attempting to avenge its partner's death by only melee attacks.
+When battling the [[UNSC]] [[Marines]], one Hunter will engage the Marines in close combat, whilst the other will hang back and support with the [[Assault Cannon]]. If one of the Hunters dies, the other will occasionally leap forward and attempt to smash an enemy with its shield. If this attack connects, the foe on the receiving end of the blow will invariably die. Generally, hunters have a harder time taking down marines than they had in Halo: CE, but that is because the health of marines has been increased drasticly, they almost have 175% more health in normal difficulty.
+During the last level of Halo 2, many players are relieved to find out that 2 pairs of Hunters are with them. Due to their amazing strength and size, it is logical to hide behind them and activate your camouflage to escape from being harmed (for beginners). However, on Legendary, some players go first, and take out as many Brutes as possible, so they won't have to deal with them later.
+==== ''[[Halo 3]]'' ====
+[[Image:20668064-Full.jpg|thumb|right|255px|Two Hunters on the level, [[The Storm (Level)|The Storm]].]]
+The Hunters in ''[[Halo 3]]'' are even more advanced then their ''[[Halo 2]]'' counterparts. They are even larger and much stronger, but appear less bulky.
+The most notable feature of Hunters in [[Halo 3]] is that they work, react, and function very much as a pair. Their computer AI for the game allows the Hunters to seem very closely bonded to the other, finally creating the "bond brother" idea. In the game, they also do some things simultaneously, such as strike at an enemy behind together, which further displays their connections to each other. This "bond" is most noticeable in Halo 3, but somewhat appears less in the previous two games as well.
+Flexible armor plating covers their previously vulnerable “stomach” areas. All melee attacks are faster and much deadlier, and these Hunters now anticipate enemies behind it and can attack them. But their armor is more interactive, so if back plating is removed, there will be a bigger target to shoot at. When the spikes fall off, small stubs of Lekgolo are left where the spike used to be. Hunters are also able to be killed by melee attacks again, as in [[Halo: CE]]. However it seems that Hunters are more vulnerable to melee attacks in [[Halo 3]].
+[[Image:1221306015 800px-1218481302 Huner2.jpg|thumb|right|250px| Two Hunters in combat position.]]
+If a grenade is thrown at a Hunter, it can strafe-jump away from the explosion. However, their spikes and back armor now falls off in pieces as the Hunter accumulates damage, and their Assault Cannons do slightly less damage, while it appears that [[grenades]] and explosives seem to do more damage compared to the other two games and can kill instantly if stuck on the back or neck on Heroic or a lower difficulty. Gravity Hammers can also do a great deal of damage if hit in the exposed part of their back. Meleeing them with a Brute Shot in the back usually blows off its covering armor plating, but hitting the unprotected part instantly kills it, and strangely sends the Hunter flying 30 feet in the air. This may be a glitch or just something Bungie mistakenly left in ''Halo 3'' after development, this can be done with other species too.
+The most effective weapons against them are [[Support Weapons|support weapons]] and explosives. It is also possible to kill a Hunter in one ram with a [[Ghost]], [[Wraith]], and [[Chopper]] when using the turbo boost. The most effective weapons against Hunters are the [[Spartan Laser]] and [[Plasma Cannon]], the [[Plasma Cannon]] works much like the [[Plasma Rifle]] did in Halo: Combat Evolved, killing them very quickly, as does its human counterpart the [[Machine Gun Turret]]. And like most things in [[Halo 3]] the [[Spartan Laser]] kills in one shot. The [[Missile Pod]] and [[Rocket Launcher]], both explosive weapons, can tear apart Hunters. As can dual plasma rifles if you hit them in their unprotected backs.
+If a Hunter is unaware of the player or his allies, it will usually stand still. This the perfect chance for the player to use a powerful scoped weapon such as the [[Sniper Rifle]] or a "messy" weapon with slow projectiles and arc effects such as the [[Fuel Rod Gun]], or a [[Plasma|Plasma Grenade]] or [[Spike Grenade]]. If the player is in front of or on the side of the Hunter, he can use the scoped weapon on its neck, which is slightly weaker than its back, and weaken it with 1-2 shots, and then finish it off with his grenades. If he is on its rear, the best choice would be the "messy" weapon. He should&nbsp;shoot 2 shots (without waiting for the first to reach its target, he should fire the second) to ensure an easy kill. Of course, if he has the [[Rocket Launcher]] or the [[Spartan Laser]] with him, he should face the Hunter and destroy it with one shot. One way to get to a Hunters back is to have one teammate shoot the hunter in the front, (wasting ammo so use a plasma pistol, or a [[SMG]]) while the other player sneaks around the back and sticks it.
+If you do not have these, it is best to sit back and use the [[Battle Rifle]] or [[Covenant Carbine]] to the vulnerable areas.
+Hunters are easier to kill in Halo 3 because the hunters have become larger and slower, making it easier to hit their weak spots.
+Only 8 hunters appear appeared in the Halo 3 campaign, meaning that most have sided with the [[Covenant Separatists]].
+==== ''[[Halo 3: ODST]]'' ====
+[[File:94299424-Full.jpg|thumb|255px|A golden Hunter fires his assault cannon at night.]]
+Like in Halo 3, Hunters travel in pairs, but there is the odd moment where you will find a Hunter by his lonesome, usually in [[firefight]]. A pack of Hunters may consist of two regular Hunters, one blue and gold Hunter, or two gold Hunters. Other than the color, the only difference between the blue and gold variants is the weapon they carry. Gold Hunters carry an assault cannon similar to the cannon used by the Hunter in Halo: CE, but with rounds identical to fuel rod rounds in Halo 3. This means that the round will travel quickly, and with little arc.
+As in Halo 3, Hunters are most susceptible to attacks from behind, where powerful weapons such as the machinegun turret or rocket launcher will do incredible damage. Close quarters combat is now extremely dangerous because you run more slowly and can not jump as high while playing as an [[Orbital Drop Shock Trooper|ODST]]. Sometimes, it is possible to put the Hunter into a chain of continuous melee attacks, regardless of how far away you are from it, and the trick is to get close enough to it to make it melee, then, back off and shoot its exposed area continuously, and it in turn will continuously melee. Be cautious when attempting this method, because if the Hunter lands a melee, you will not live much longer.
+Combating gold Hunters is more risky at long range, because their fuel rod projectiles travel faster, can be fired quite quickly in succession, and carry massive splash damage. This makes them more formidable against vehicles. It is recommended that the player weaves in such a way that the Hunter will constantly have to adjust its aim. Fighting both a blue and gold variant at the same time is also tricky, because you have two different types of attacks to dodge. In firefight, teamwork is essential in taking down the Hunter, the ideal position being one person in front of the hunter, getting its attention, while another person positions himself behind it, with a clear shot at the exposed spots. Another good strategy when facing two Hunters, is to have one stand in front of the other. When the Hunter in the rear fires, he will kill the Hunter in front of him.
+Another less well known tactic involves forcing the Hunter to jump off of the map. This can be done if you lead a hunter to an area with a bottomless pit (this only works on the maps [[Windward (Level)|Windward]], [[Chasm Ten (Level)|Chasm Ten]], and [[Alpha Site (Level)|Alpha Site]]) and throw a grenade at their feet. With tough luck on, the Hunter will attempt to dodge the grenade and jump off of the floor and into the pit, killing itself. Grenade placement must be very precise, and in an area where the hunter will jump off of the map (to the side of the hunter if the hunter is right beside the pit).
+It is always good to preserve [[Fuel Rod Gun|Fuel Rod]] and [[Rocket Launcher]] ammunition in anticipation of Hunters. They will usually appear at least once during a set. These weapons are the most effective at Hunter killing, and it is possible to kill a Hunter in less than five seconds if well equipped.
+==== ''[[Halo Wars]]'' ====
+[[Image:HW hunters.jpg|thumb|right|200px|A pair of Hunters as depicted in Halo Wars.]]
+Hunters always appear in pairs and occupy a strong anti-vehicle role<ref>http://www.halowars.com/GameInfo/Hall.aspx#Hunter</ref>. Armed with a Fuel Rod Gun, they can deliver heavy damage to UNSC ground vehicles. When one Hunter falls, it becomes much easier to kill the remaining one<ref>http://www.1up.com/do/previewPage?pager.offset=1&cId=3172311&p=</ref>. As aforementioned, they are mainly anti-vehicle: they'll get rid of [[Warthog]]s, [[Cobra]]s, [[Wolverine]]s, [[Gremlin]]s and early [[Scorpion]] versions pretty fast. However they're ineffective against infantry, and useless against aircraft. Can be trained inside the [[Hall (Covenant)|Hall]] and have several upgrades:
+*'''Bonded Shield'''- Adds the iconic hunter shield which deflects projectiles.
+*'''Spirit Bond'''- Increases damage output while both hunters in bonded pair are alive.
+*'''Assault Beam'''- Mortar-like Fuel rod Cannon upgrades to Beam version for sustained, yet heavy amount of damage.
+'''Resource''': 250
+'''Minimum Tech Level''': 1
+'''Population Count''': 2
+== Trivia ==
+*When caught in a non-fatal explosion, a Hunter will often leap into the air and perform a ridiculous-looking "crouch-jump".
+[[Image:1216053015 Hunter.jpg|thumb|right|A Hunter preparing its [[Assault Cannon]].]]
+*Hunters are responsible for security aboard a Covenant warship. One of their duties is to protect the vessel's Ship Master. Upon failing that, they are to exact revenge on his assassin.<ref>''[[Halo: Ghosts of Onyx]]'', page 190</ref>
+*In ''[[Halo: The Flood]]'', it mentions that Hunters have skin and a jutting spine. This is incorrect, as they were revealed to be a compound of small worm-like creatures. However, this does not preclude the possibility that the worms may form a skin-like membrane on the outside of their colony for protection against more casual damage, and in Halo 3 a metal column can be seen after the back armor plating has been detached, perhaps forming an artificial "spine" for vertical support.
+*At first, Hunters were meant to comprise the whole of [[Heretic]] forces on the [[Gas Mine]].<ref>"Essentials - Disk Three"</ref>
+*In a Bungie Weekly Update, [[Frank O'Connor]] said: "''Hunter society is complex and we have seen but the tiniest fraction of it. There are some fundamental facts about Hunter biology that mean the combat type is just the tip of the iceberg.''"<ref>http://www.bungie.net/News/TopStory.aspx?story=updatefeb03</ref> This means, or at least implies, that there are other kinds of Hunters that simply have yet to be seen. For example, [[Scarabs]] are powered by these worms.
+*Spartan [[William-043]] killed a Hunter by ripping out some of the [[Lekgolo]] worms in its body, hinting that a Hunter can be killed if too many of its worms are displaced.
+*The Hunter resembles the enemy of the same name from [[Bungie]]'s older series, ''[[Marathon]]'', except that ''Marathon'''s Hunter has a shoulder-mounted weapon, rather than an arm-mounted weapon.
+*Hunters can be killed by beserking [[Brutes]], as noticed in the ''[[Halo 2]]'' levels [[Gravemind (Level)|Gravemind]] and [[The Great Journey (Level)]]. The Covenant Separatist Hunters would try to melee the Loyalist [[Brutes]] away, but the Brutes, having a faster melee attack, would continuously melee the Hunters, eventually killing them.
+*Hunters in ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'' are not harmed by [[Fuel Rod Gun]]s. This may be because you are not supposed to have [[Fuel Rod Guns]] in Campaign, or it may be a precaution meant to prevent Hunters from injuring each other when fighting in pairs. In ''Halo 3'', however, it is possible to get one Hunter to accidentally kill its mate for a no-shot kill.
+*Hunters in ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'' have ranks in the actor variant [[tag]]s. One variant is called 'Hunter' and another called 'Hunter major'. In ''Halo 2'', there is no ranking system for Hunters.
+*Like most other races of the [[Covenant]], Hunters' blood differs from that of [[humans]]. Mgalekgolo blood is bright, fluorescent orange and appears to have a very thick, slimy texture. It has also been noted that their blood smells strongly of burnt plastic, hinting that the make-up of their bodily fluids is drastically different from that of a human.
+*In ''Halo: First Strike'', it was stated that the spikes on the Hunter's back are sensory nodes. <ref>''[[Halo: First Strike]]'', page 110</ref>
+*The spikes on Hunters' backs pointed upward in ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''; in ''Halo 2'' and ''Halo 3'', they jutted out almost horizontally.
+*A pair of Hunters are in charge of the security of the Oracle on ''High Charity'', as read in Contact Harvest.
+*In ''[[Halo: The Flood]]'', the spikes on Hunters' backs were said to be as sharp as razors.
+*Hunters are easiest to take down in ''Halo: Combat Evolved'', with one shot of the [[M6D]] to the unprotected orange stomach of the creature resulting in its death due to any shot to the exposed flesh counting as a headshot.
+*Engineers can project thier energy shields onto Hunters if close by.
+*In halo wars there is a glitch with the hunters hot dropping to the leader and only one comes and the other 1 doesn't.If it gets near the "fog of war" it can go into the darkness.this is a useful glitch as enemies dont attack the hunter and the hunter can attack enemies without them fighting back.
 ==Gallery==
-===Development images===
+<gallery>
-<gallery>
+Image:1210404018 2170450642 7d47a8bc44.jpg
-File:HCE Hunter Concept 1.png|Early concept art of a Hunter for ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''.
+Image:1210403895 Hunter.jpg
-File:HCE Hunter Concept 2.png|Concept art of a Hunter for ''Halo: Combat Evolved''.
+Image:1217455089 Hunters.jpg
-File:HCE Hunter Concept 3.png|Concept art of a Hunter for ''Halo: Combat Evolved''.
+Image:1218481371 Hunter3.jpg
-File:HCE Hunter Concept_4.jpg|Concept art of a Hunter for ''Halo: Combat Evolved''.
+Image:200px-Huntercrouched.jpg
-File:HCE EarlyHunters Screenshot.jpg|A pair of Mgalekgolo in an early build of ''Halo: Combat Evolved''.
+Image:Hunterg.jpg
-File:Hunter.jpg|A conceptual render of a Mgalekgolo in ''Halo: Combat Evolved''.
+Image:GoldHunter2.jpg
-File:Concept-H2-Hunter.jpg|Finalized concept art of a Mgalekgolo for ''[[Halo 2]]''.
-File:HW Hunter_Sketch.jpg|Early sketch of a Mgalekgolo for ''[[Halo Wars]]''.
-File:HW_Hunter_Concept.jpg|Concept art of a Mgalekgolo for ''Halo Wars''.
-File:TheDuel Hunter Concept.png|Concept art of a Hunter in ''[[Halo Legends]]'' episode, ''[[The Duel]]''.
-File:H4 GGHunter Concept 1.jpg|Concept art of the Mgalekgolo for ''[[Halo 4]]''.
-File:H4_Hunter_Concept_1.jpg|''Halo 4'' concept art.
-File:H4_Hunter_Concept_2.jpg|''Halo 4'' concept art.
-File:H4_Hunter_Concept_3.jpg|''Halo 4'' concept art.
-File:H4-Render-Hunter.jpg|Render of the hi-poly model of a Mgalekgolo in ''Halo 4''.
-File:H2A - Mgalekgolo 1.jpg|3D render of the Mgalekgolo's body armor in ''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]''.
-File:H2A - Mgalekgolo 2.jpg|Final render of the Mgalekgolo in ''Halo 2: Anniversary''.
-File:H5G Hunter Concept 3.jpg|Concept art of a corrupted Mgalekgolo for ''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''.
-File:HW2C-Hunters.jpg|Concept art of a Banished Mgalekgolo for ''[[Halo Wars 2]]''.
-File:HINF Concept EarlyHunters.jpg|Early concept art exploration of Mgalekgolo for ''[[Halo Infinite]]''.
-File:HINF Concept EarlyHunters2.jpg|More early concept exploration.
-File:HINF Concept EarlyHunter.jpg|More early concept exploration.
-File:HINF Concept HunterThings.jpg|Early concept exploration of something relating to the Mgalekgolo, possibly of the Lekgolo worms themselves.
-</gallery>
-===Screenshots and official artwork===
-<gallery>
-File:HaloCE-MgalekgoloHunter.png|Final in-game view of the Mgalekgolo in ''Halo: Combat Evolved'', with [[assault cannon|gun]] raised.
-File:HCE-MgalekgoloHunterAlt.png|Alternate preview of the Mgalekgolo in ''Halo: Combat Evolved'', crouched behind its massive shield.
-File:Hunter1.jpg|A Mgalekgolo in ''Halo: Combat Evolved''.
-File:HCE-IgidoOgado.png|Bond Brothers Igido Nosa Hurru and Ogado Nosa Fasu in ''Halo: Combat Evolved''.
-File:H2-AltMgalekgoloHunter.png|An in-game view of the Mgalekgolo in combat stance in ''Halo 2''.
-File:H2-MgalekgoloHunter.png|An in-game view of the Mgalekgolo running in ''Halo 2''.
-File:Huntercrouched.jpg|A Mgalekgolo preparing to launch a melee attack in ''Halo 2''.
-File:H3-BlueHunter.png|An in-game view of the blue-armored Mgalekgolo in ''[[Halo 3]]''.
-File:Hunter FireCharge.jpg|A Mgalekgolo about to fire its assault cannon.
-File:H3_Hunter_AssaultBeam.jpg|A Mgalekgolo firing its assault cannon.
-File:Hunter BloodBond.jpg|A Mgalekgolo pair in combat in ''Halo 3''.
-File:HW Hunter Render.jpg|A pair of Mgalekgolo from ''Halo Wars''.
-File:HW Hunter Model.png|The Mgalekgolo's final model from ''Halo Wars''.
-File:HW Hunterscloseup.jpg|Closeup of Hunters in-game
-File:HW bondedshield.jpg|Hunters with Bonded Shield Upgrade
-File:HW Huntergroup.jpg|Squads of Hunters on the move
-File:H3ODST-GoldHunter.png|An in-game view of the gold-armored Mgalekgolo in ''[[Halo 3: ODST]]''.
-File:HTMCC-H3ODST GoldHunters 1.png|A pair of gold Mgalekgolo in ''Halo 3: ODST''.
-File:Hunter blood.jpg|Mgalekgolo blood in ''Halo 3: ODST''. Note the blood's luminosity.
-File:HLHunters.png|A larger form of Mgalekgolo in the ''The Duel''.
-File:HBL-Bestthingever.png|A Mgalekgolo carrying three [[Unggoy Minor]]s during the [[Battle of Line Installation 1-4]] in ''[[Halo: Blood Line]]''.
-File:HReach - Mgalekgolo.png|A Mgalekgolo in the [[Halo: Reach Beta|''Halo: Reach'' Beta]].
-File:HReach-MgalekgoloHunter.png|An in-game view of the Mgalekgolo in ''[[Halo: Reach]]'' final build.
-File:HunterPairReach.jpg|A group of Mgalekgolo ready to attack in ''Halo: Reach''.
-File:HunterFirefight.jpg|A Mgalekgolo about to launch a melee attack in ''Halo: Reach''.
-File:Reach Hunter-1-.jpg|One of the Hunter pairs defending a covenant jammer in New Alexandria
-File:Hunter99.jpg|A Mgalekgolo on [[Corvette (map)|Corvette]].
-File:Ceahunter.png|Mgalekgolo in ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary]]''.
-File:HCEA-MgalekgoloHunter.png|In-game preview of the Mgalekgolo in ''Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary''.
-File:HCEA-OgadoIgido.png|Bond Brothers Igido Nosa Hurru and Ogado Nosa Fasu protect the Cartographer Facility in ''Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary''.
-File:HCEA-IgidoOgadoMelee.png|Bond Brothers Igido Nosa Hurru and Ogado Nosa Fasu preparing to launch simultaneous melee attacks.
-File:FUD-Hunter.jpg|A Mgalekgolo in ''[[Halo 4: Forward Unto Dawn]]''.
-File:FUD-Hunter-Closeup.jpg|A close-up of a Mgalekgolo's helmet in ''Halo 4: Forward Unto Dawn''.
-File:H4 profile - Mgalekgolo.png|A Mgalekgolo in ''Halo 4''
-File:H4-Campaign-MasterChief-Vs-Hunter.jpg|[[John-117]] battling a Mgalekgolo during the [[Raid on Ivanoff Station]].
-File:HE19 PalmerfightsHunter.jpg|[[Sarah Palmer]] fighting a Mgalekgolo in a [[War Games]] simulation in ''[[Halo: Escalation]]''.
-File:H2A Render Mgalekgolo.png|A render of the Mgalekgolo in ''Halo 2: Anniversary''.
-File:H2A Mgalekgolo.png|Render of the Mgalekgolo in ''Halo 2: Anniversary''.
-File:H2A-SOSMgalekgolo.png|Mgalekgolo at the Bastion of the Brutes.
-File:H2A-TallMgalekgolo.png|A Mgalekgolo standing straight.
-File:H2A-Mgalekgoloface.png|A close-up of a Mgalekgolo's helmet in ''Halo 2: Anniversary''.
-File:H2A Terminals - First Hunters.jpg|Pre-Covenant Mgalekgolo in [[Terminal (Halo 2: Anniversary)|''Halo 2: Anniversary''{{'}}s terminals]].
-File:H5G-MgalekgoloHunter.png|A Mgalekgolo in ''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''.
-File:H5G-Hunterforming.png|A Mgalekgolo being formed aboard the ''[[Argent Moon]]''.
-File:H5G-BerserkHunter.png|A Hunter going berserk aboard the ''Argent Moon'' as their bond has been broken.
-File:Hunters 249.png|First pair of Hunters engaged by [[Fireteam Osiris]] on the [[landing zone]] at Sanghelios.
-File:Brave warrior.png|An enraged Mgalekgolo and a Swords of Sanghelios Sangheili Storm dueling.
-File:H5G-TrappedMgalekgolo.png|A Hunter trapped by [[031 Exuberant Witness]] on [[Genesis]].
-File:H5G-WarzoneHunters.png|Two Legendary Mgalekgolo part of a War Games simulation.
-File:H5G-WarzoneHunter.png|A Serpent Mgalekgolo on [[Escape from ARC]].
-File:H5G Marketing E32015HE ElderHunter.jpg|A hologram of an Elder Mgalekgolo.
-FilE:ElderHunterA.png|An Elder Mgalekgolo on [[Raid on Apex 7]].
-FilE:ElderHunterB.png|Another Elder Mgalekgolo on Raid on Apex 7.
-File:H5G-Mgalekgolo.png|Render of a Remnant Mgalekgolo in ''Halo 5: Guardians''.
-File:H5-Serpent Hunter.png|Render of a Serpent Mgalekgolo in ''Halo 5: Guardians''.
-File:H5G-MythicMgalekgolo.png|A Mythic Mgalekgolo in ''Halo 5: Guardians''.
-File:HW2B Banished Hunters.png|Banished Mgalekgolo in the ''[[Halo Wars 2 Open Beta]]''.
-File:HW2-Hunter Render.jpg|Render of the ''Halo Wars 2'' Hunter unit.
-File:HW2 Blitz Hunters.png|[[Blitz]] card of a Banished Mgalekgolo in ''Halo Wars 2''.
-File:HW2 - Colony.png|"Colony" the Banished [[leader]] of the Lekgolo.
-File:HW2-HuntersvsMarines.png|Hunters fighting Marines on Installation 00.
-File:HW2-Colonyhunters.png|A Hunter Captain, Goliath, and Hunter bond brother pair in ''Halo Wars 2''.
-File:HCL Icons 6.jpg|The Hunter figure from the sixth [[Halo Legendary Crate]].
-File:HINF Hunter.png|A Banished Mgalekgolo in ''Halo Infinite''.
-File:HINF Hunters.png|A pair of Banished Mgalekgolo in ''Halo Infinite''.
-File:HINF DamagedHunter.png|A Banished Mgalekgolo's exposed back.
-File:HINF HunterSlam.png|A Mgalekgolo melees the ground.
-File:HINF BerserkHunter.png|A Mgalekgolo berserks after its bond brother was killed.
-File:HINF-Hunters@Spire.jpg|Banished Mgalekgolo at the base of a [[Reformation Spire]].
-File:HINF BanishedHunters.png|Ardent Mgalekgolo in water.
-File:HINF-HunterOfficers.jpg|Ardent Mgalekgolo patrolling.
-File:Enc22-Mgalekgolo.png|A Mgalekgolo worm as they appear in the [[Halo Encyclopedia (2022 edition)]].
-File:HINF-TrolliHunter.jpg|A Mgalekgolo made out of [[Wikipedia:Trolli|Trolli]] candies.
 </gallery>
-==List of appearances==
-{{col-begin}}
-{{col-2}}
-*''[[Halo: The Fall of Reach]]'' {{1st}}
-*''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''
-*''[[Halo: The Flood]]''
-*''[[Halo: First Strike]]''
-*''[[Halo 2]]''
-**''[[Conversations from the Universe]]'' {{Mo}}
-*''[[Halo: Ghosts of Onyx]]''
-*''[[Halo: Uprising]]''
-*''[[Halo 3]]''
-**''[[Bestiarum]]''
-*''[[Halo: Contact Harvest]]''
-*''[[Halo Wars: Genesis]]''
-*''[[Halo Wars]]''
-*''[[Halo 3: ODST]]''
-*''[[Halo Legends]]''
-**''[[Origins]]''
-**''[[The Duel]]''
-**''[[Prototype]]''
-*''[[Halo: Evolutions - Essential Tales of the Halo Universe]]''
-**''[[Blunt Instruments]]''
-**''[[The Return]]'' {{mo}}
-**''[[Wages of Sin]]'' {{mo}}
-*''[[Halo: Blood Line]]''
-*''[[Halo: Reach]]''
-*''[[Halo: Fall of Reach]]''
-**''[[Halo: Fall of Reach - Covenant|Covenant]]''
-**''[[Halo: Fall of Reach - Invasion|Invasion]]''
-{{col-2}}
-*''[[Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary]]''
-*''[[Halo 4: Forward Unto Dawn]]''
-*''[[Halo 4]]''
-**''[[Spartan Ops]]''
-*''[[Halo: Escalation]]''
-*''[[Halo: Broken Circle]]''
-*''[[Halo: Nightfall]]'' {{Mo}}
-*''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]''
-**''[[Terminal (Halo 2: Anniversary)|Terminals]]''
-*''[[Halo: New Blood]]''
-*''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''
-*''[[Halo: Ground Command]]''
-*''[[Halo Mythos]]''
-*''[[Halo: Fractures]]''
-**''[[Breaking Strain]]'' {{Mo}}
-*''[[Halo: Tales from Slipspace]]''
-*''[[Halo: Smoke and Shadow]]''
-*''[[Halo Wars 2]]''
-*''[[Halo: Envoy]]'' {{Mo}}
-*''[[Halo: Legacy of Onyx]]'' {{Mo}}
-*''[[Halo: Recruit]]'' {{C|Non-canonical appearance}}
-*''[[Halo: Fireteam Raven]]''
-*''[[Halo: Battle Born]]''
-*''[[Halo: Outpost Discovery]]''
-*''[[Halo: Point of Light]]'' {{Mo}}
-*''[[Halo Infinite]]''
-*''[[Halo: The Television Series]]''
-**''[[Emergence]]''
-{{Col-end}}
 ==Sources==
-{{Ref/Sources|2}}
+<references/>
-{{Lekgolo}}
+==Related Pages==
-{{Navbox/Species}}
+*[[Taming of the Hunters]]
+*[[Assault Cannon]]
+*[[Scarab]]
+*[[lekgolo]]
-[[Category:Mgalekgolo| ]]
+{{Covenant}}
-[[Category:Lekgolo]]
+[[Category:Living Organisms]]
-[[Category:Sapient species]]
+[[Category:The Covenant]]
-[[Category:Covenant species]]