{{For}}
{{Infobox entity
| defaultimagesize = 100px
| group= Idle
| 1-1=Skeleton.png 
| 1-1caption='''Right-handed'''
| 1-2=Lefthandedskeleton.png
| 1-2caption='''Left-handed'''
| group2= Aiming
| 2-1=Skeleton Aiming.png
| 2-1caption='''Right-handed'''
| invimage = Skeleton Spawn Egg
| health = {{hp|20}}
| behavior = Hostile
| mobtype = [[Undead]], [[Monster]]
| damage = '''Ranged'''<br>
''Java Edition'':<br>
Easy: {{hp|2}} - {{hp|4}}<br>
Normal: {{hp|3}} – {{hp|5}}<br>
Hard: {{hp|4}} - {{hp|8}}<br>
''Bedrock Edition'':<br>
Easy and Normal: {{hp|1}} - {{hp|4}},<br> 
depending on proximity<br>
Hard: {{hp|1}} - {{hp|5}},<br>
depending on proximity<br>
'''Melee'''<br>
Easy: {{hp|2}}<br>
Normal: {{hp|2}}<br>
Hard: {{hp|3}}<br>
| size = '''{{IN|Java}}:'''<br>Height: 1.99 blocks<br>Width: 0.6 blocks<br>
'''{{IN|Bedrock}}:'''<br>
Height: 1.9 blocks<br>Width: 0.6 blocks
| spawn = 
'''{{EnvLink|Overworld}}:'''<br>
* Light level of 0 
* Rarely when a spider spawns, as a [[spider jockey]].
* When a skeleton horse trap is triggered, as a [[skeleton horseman]]. 
* {{EnvLink|Monster Room}}: from [[monster spawner]]s.
* {{EnvLink|Trial Chambers}}: from [[trial spawner]]s.
'''{{EnvLink|The Nether}}:'''<small>(Light level of 7 or less)</small><br>
* {{BiomeLink|Soul Sand Valley}}
* {{EnvLink|Nether Fortress}}
| equipment = {{drop|Item|Bow}} (right hand: 89%; left hand: 11%{{only|java|short=y}}; may be enchanted)<br>
{{drop|Item|id=chestplate|Armor}} (occasionally, may be enchanted)<br>
{{drop|Block|Carved Pumpkin}} (22.5% chance, only during Halloween) {{only|je|short=1}}<br>
{{drop|Block|Jack o'Lantern}} (2.5% chance, only during Halloween) {{only|je|short=1}}
}}

A '''skeleton''' is an [[undead]] [[hostile mob]] that performs ranged attacks with a [[bow]].

== Spawning ==
=== Light level ===
A skeleton may spawn above a [[solid block]] at a [[light level]] of 0 from all the [[Overworld]] except in [[mushroom fields]] and [[deep dark]] biomes. They spawn in small groups of up to four skeletons {{in|JE}} or two skeletons {{in|BE}}. They may also spawn in dark caves no matter if it's day or night. Skeletons burn when the sky light level goes up 12 or over, and then seek the nearest source of shade or water. To prevent skeletons from burning, the use of [[Opacity|Opaque]] blocks can provide it shade for safety. Transparent blocks such as [[glass]] and [[Iron Bars|iron bars]] have no effect on sky light level and do not create shade.

=== Spider jockeys ===
[[Spider]]s have a 1% chance to spawn with a skeleton riding them, creating a [[spider jockey]].

[[File: Spider Jockey.png|alt=spider jockey|thumb|left|upright|A spider jockey.]]

=== Skeleton horse traps during thunderstorms ===
Four skeleton horsemen spawn when a [[Skeleton Horse#Spawning|skeleton horse trap]] is triggered, typically during a thunderstorm. The skeletons ride on skeleton horses and are equipped with enchanted [[bow]]s and [[iron helmet]]s. {{IN|JE}}, they have damage immunity for 3 seconds after spawning.

[[File: SkeletonRiderGroup.png|thumb|left|upright|A skeleton horse trap.]]

=== In the Nether ===
Skeletons spawn commonly in [[soul sand valley]]s biomes. However, skeletons have a lower population density in soul sand valleys than [[zombified piglin]]s have in [[nether wastes]] (i.e. there are much fewer skeletons in a given area).

In [[nether fortress]]es structures, there is a 20% chance that a skeleton spawns in place of a [[wither skeleton]].

=== Monster spawners ===
Skeletons spawn from 25% of the [[monster spawner]]s found in [[monster room]]s.

=== Trial spawners ===
Regular skeletons have a chance to be selected as the "ranged" mob for [[trial spawner]]s in [[trial chambers]].

=== Variants ===
Many skeletons are also replaced by their variants, [[stray]]s, in snowy biomes, and [[bogged]], in [[swamp]] and [[mangrove swamp]] biomes.

== Drops ==
=== On death ===
{{DropsTableHead}}
{{DropsLine|name=Bone|quantity=0-2|lootingquantity=1}}
{{DropsLine|name=Arrow|quantity=0-2|lootingquantity=1}}
{{DropsLine|name=Skeleton Skull|rollchancenote=Only dropped when killed by a [[charged creeper]].|quantity=1}}
{{DropsTableFoot}}

A skeleton always drops any equipment it picked up. A Skeleton also has a random chance to drop each piece of naturally spawned equipment, including its [[bow]], but only if it is killed by a [[player]] or tamed [[wolf]]. The chance to drop a naturally spawned piece of equipment is 8.5% without [[Looting]], 9.5% with Looting I, 10.5% with Looting II, and 11.5% with Looting III.

A skeleton also drops experience when killed by a player or a tamed wolf. The amount of experience dropped can be as little as {{xp|5}} or as much as {{xp|20}}. Skeletons drop {{xp|5}} experience as a base. For each piece of naturally spawned equipment the skeleton has, it drops a random {{xp|1|3}} experience as well. The random amount dropped by each piece is independent of the amounts dropped by the other pieces.

== Behavior ==
Skeletons chase [[player]]s, baby [[turtle]]s, and [[iron golem]]s they see within 16 blocks, climbing [[stairs]] or [[ladder]]s, navigating mazes and traversing other complex obstacles to get within shooting range. 
[[File:Skeleton loading bow to shoot.png|alt=Skeleton shooting|thumb|right|upright|An idle skeleton and a skeleton shooting.]]
When within 15 blocks of a target, with a clear line of sight, a skeleton starts shooting with [[arrow]]s, once every 3 seconds on Easy and Normal difficulties or once every 2 seconds on Hard difficulty. If the player leaves the 15-block radius, skeletons wait for some seconds with the bow charged, shooting the moment the player comes within range again. Their detection range is reduced by 50% if a [[skeleton skull]] is worn by the player. This stacks with [[sneaking]] and the [[Invisibility]] effect. 

The skeleton's accuracy is based on the world [[difficulty]]. Skeletons have an <code>"error"</code> of <code>10</code> on Easy, <code>6</code> on Normal and <code>2</code> on Hard. This is compared to the player's <code>lack of accuracy</code> of <code>1</code>. To account for gravity, skeletons aim 0.2 blocks higher for every horizontal block of range to the target.

Skeletons have infinite [[durability]] on their bows, and can shoot an infinite amount of arrows. Arrows shot by skeletons cannot be picked up from the ground.

Skeleton behavior varies between the game editions:

;''Java Edition''
* Strafe in circular patterns to dodge attacks and retreat to a safe range if the player comes within 4 blocks. They can walk off cliffs while strafing.<ref>{{bug|MC-90245|||WAI}}</ref>
* [[Sprint]] toward the player if they are 14 blocks away or farther.
* Use bows even underwater. The [[water]] slows down the arrows.
*Animates its bow while attacking.

;''Bedrock Edition''
* Skeletons typically stop moving to shoot, making no attempt to avoid being hit.
* An underwater skeleton uses a melee attack because it is unable to use a [[bow]] underwater.
* A skeleton on land shoots quickly at a player in water. The rate of fire increases as the player approaches, making [[combat]] difficult due to the knockback.
* Skeletons shoot faster at players the more they are closer to it. The rate of fire decreases from 3 seconds to 1 second the closer the player is.

In most cases, if a skeleton's arrow hits a neutral or hostile [[mob]] that has not yet been attacked by the player, the mob attacks the skeleton. When a skeleton is attacked by another mob (including another skeleton), it attacks that mob, reorienting on the player once the mob is dead. Skeletons flee from [[wolves]]. A skeleton runs from a chasing wolf until the wolf deals damage, after which the skeleton turns to shoot at the wolf that successfully attacked it.
[[File:skeletonduel.png|thumb|Dueling skeletons. One skeleton turned red from being shot by the other skeleton. Additionally, a [[zombie]] can be seen to the left of the red skeleton.]]
Skeletons sink in [[water]] and cannot [[swim]], but do not [[Damage#Drowning|drown]]. If a skeleton is inside of [[powder snow]] for 7 seconds, it converts into a [[stray]]. A newly-converted stray always has full health even if converted from a damaged skeleton. The converted stray keeps any items worn or held when it was a skeleton. Only skeletons can become strays; [[bogged]] or [[wither skeleton]]s cannot be converted.  
[[File:Wolves attacking skeleton.png|alt=Wolves attacking skeleton|thumb|right|Wolves attacking a skeleton.]]
If spawned with a weapon other than a bow or no weapon at all (which can be spawned with commands such as {{cmd|/summon skeleton ~ ~ ~ {HandItems:[{Count:1,id:"iron_sword"}]} }}, or {{cmd|/summon skeleton ~ ~ ~ {} }}), or it picks up a weapon other than a bow, a skeleton charges at a player with arms outstretched and deals damage by touch, similar to a wither skeleton.

A skeleton holding a [[tipped arrow]] or [[spectral arrow]] in its [[dual wield|off-hand]] always shoots that type of arrow, and the arrow held is not consumed.

If a skeleton kills a [[creeper]], the creeper drops a [[music disc]]. It can be any music disc, except for [[Pigstep]], [[otherside]], [[Relic]], [[5]], [[Creator]], [[Creator (Music Box)]] and [[Precipice]].

=== Sunlight ===
[[File:Particle mobflame emitter.png|alt=Skeleton on fire|thumb|A skeleton burning in sunlight.]]
When the moon can no longer be seen (Dawn) and the sun is above 15°, skeletons can burn. Burning is suppressed when the skeleton is
*in a place with a non-air block directly over it. In [[Java Edition]], the roof must be a light-blocking block.
*in a sufficiently shaded area: a [[Light#Mobs|sunlight level]] of 11 or less.
*in water. A skeleton pathfinds to water if it is not wearing head armor and not already in water.
*wearing head [[armor]]. [[Helmet]]s slowly get damaged when a skeleton has it on in sunlight, and it eventually breaks.
*under the status effect of [[Fire Resistance]].
*standing in cobwebs.<ref>{{Cite bug|MC|62182|Webs block sunlight from burning skeletons and zombies|date=July 16, 2014|resolution=Works as intended}}</ref>
Transparent and translucent blocks, including [[glass]] and [[ice]], do not prevent them from burning.{{only|Java|short=1}}.

Unlike [[zombie]]s, skeletons seek out shelter during the day, and remain under it while attacking.

=== Mob type ===
Being an [[undead]] mob, they are: 
* damaged by the status effect [[Instant Health]] and healed by the status effect [[Instant Damage]].
* unaffected by the status effects [[Regeneration]] and [[Poison]].
* ignored by the [[wither]].
* affected by the [[Smite]] enchantment.
* a threat to [[armadillo]]s, causing them to hide in their shell.

=== Geared skeletons ===
Some spawned skeletons have the ability to pick up dropped items from the ground. Unlike zombies, however, they pick up only weapons or armor. If a picked up item is [[armor]], a [[carved pumpkin]] or a [[mob head]], a skeleton equips itself with the item. If the picked up item is a [[weapon]], the skeleton uses the item as a melee weapon. In ''Bedrock Edition'', skeletons can also pick up and equip illager banners worn in their chest slot.{{Needs testing|When was this removed?|bedrock=1}}

Skeletons spawn already-armed with [[bow]]s, which may be [[enchant]]ed. The chances of that event are listed below. If a skeleton spawns wearing multiple pieces of armor, the armor is never mismatched (all pieces are made of the same material) except if it is spawned as part of a skeleton trap, in which case only the iron helmet may not match the rest of the armor.

On [[Wikipedia:Halloween|Halloween]], skeletons may spawn wearing a [[carved pumpkin]] or [[jack o'lantern]]. They do not drop this, even when killed with Looting.

{| class="wikitable" data-description="Chances of skeletons wearing or picking up armor, per difficulty"
|-
! 
! Easy
! Normal
! Hard
|-
| Armor
| 0%
| 0%–15%<ref group="note" name="localdifficulty">Value is based on the [[regional difficulty]].</ref>
| 1.875%–15%<ref group="note" name="localdifficulty"/>
|-
| Weapon<ref group="note">100% chance of a bow</ref>
| 100%
| 100%
| 100%
|-
| Pick up
| 0%
| 0%–55%<ref group="note" name="localdifficulty"/>
| 6.875%–55%<ref group="note" name="localdifficulty"/>
|-
| Weapon enchantment{{#tag:ref|Enchantment is the same as on an enchantment table at level 5–22.<ref group="note" name="localdifficulty"/>|group=note|name=enchantment}}
| 0%
| 0%–25%<ref group="note" name="localdifficulty"/>
| 3.125%–25%<ref group="note" name="localdifficulty"/>
|-
| Armor enchantment<ref group="note" name="enchantment"/>
| 0%
| 0%–50%<ref group="note" name="localdifficulty"/>
| 6.25%–50%<ref group="note" name="localdifficulty"/>
|} 
{{Notelist}}

If a skeleton does spawn with armor, the chances of specific armor are as follows:
{| class="wikitable" data-description="Chances of different armor pieces, per difficulty"
|-
! Armor
! Easy & Normal
! Hard
|-
| 1 piece
| 100%
| 100%
|-
| 2 pieces
| 75%
| 90%
|-
| 3 pieces
| 56.25%
| 81%
|-
| Full set
| 42.19%
| 72.9%
|}
{{IN|java}}, the armor pieces go from feet to head, and {{in|bedrock}}, they go from head to feet.

The chances of it being of a particular material are:

{| class="wikitable" data-description="Chances of different armor types"
|-
! Armor type
! Chance
|-
| Leather
| 37.06%
|-
| Gold
| 48.73%
|-
| Chain
| 12.90%
|-
| Iron
| 1.2%
|-
| Diamond
| 0.04%
|}

In [[Java Edition|''Java Edition'']], the armor is not damaged by any damage source; it cannot "wear out" the way [[player]] armor does. [[Helmet]]s (not [[block]]s like [[carved pumpkin]]s) on skeletons can break if the skeleton is exposed to daylight. In [[Bedrock Edition|''Bedrock Edition'']], any armor piece is damaged as if the player is wearing it.{{Verify|Does this happen in other editions, not including Java?}}

==== Pickup mechanics ====
On the topic of picking up items, skeletons prefer [[Weapon|weapons]] made of netherite over diamond, over iron, over stone, over gold/wood<ref group="pm">When a skeleton is given a [[weapon]]/[[tool]]/[[armor]] with higher durability while also equipped with a similar item (exact same one or has equal attack damage), the skeleton accepts said given item.</ref>. For weapon types, skeletons prefer swords over bows, over [[Axe|axes]], over [[Pickaxe|pickaxes]], over [[Shovel|shovels]], over [[Hoe|hoes]]<ref group="pm">If a skeleton has a wooden sword, for example, the skeleton won't take a hoe of a better tier.</ref>. Skeletons won't take [[Crossbow|crossbows]], [[Trident|tridents]] or [[Mace|maces]] whatsoever, as long as they have any other item in hand. For [[armor]], skeletons prefer armor that give more armor points than the armor to replace. Skeletons accept given cosmetic wearables ([[Head|heads]] and [[Carved Pumpkin|carved pumpkins]]), as long as they aren't wearing a [[helmet]]. If the skeleton accepts a given equipment, the skeleton drops the old one, with the same chance as if killed with Looting I, in favor of the new one. Any skeleton that spawns with equipment (picked-up items do not count) gives 1–3 extra experience points per item. Skeletons can also pick up [[Shield|shields]], they can equip it on the other hand, but this shield is useless in blocking the attack of the player or another mob. 
[[File:Skeleton with a shield.jpg|thumb|A skeleton holding a shield.]]

If multiple viable items exist, the skeleton endlessly picks up and drops the items.<ref>{{bug|MC-7774||skeletons pick drop loop|WAI}}</ref>

<references group="pm" />

== Sounds ==
{{Edition|Java}}:<br>
Skeletons use the Hostile Creatures sound category for [[Sound#Entity-dependent categories|entity-dependent sound events]].

{{SoundTable
| type = java
| {{SoundLine
| sound =Skeleton idle1.ogg
|sound2=Skeleton idle2.ogg
|sound3=Skeleton idle3.ogg
|subtitle=Skeleton rattles
|source=hostile
|description=Randomly
|id=entity.skeleton.ambient
|translationkey=subtitles.entity.skeleton.ambient
|volume=1.0
|pitch=0.8-1.2
|distance=16}}
| {{SoundLine
|sound=Skeleton hurt1.ogg
|sound2=Skeleton hurt2.ogg
|sound3=Skeleton hurt3.ogg
|sound4=Skeleton hurt4.ogg
|subtitle=Skeleton hurts
|source=hostile
|description=When a skeleton is damaged
|id=entity.skeleton.hurt
|translationkey=subtitles.entity.skeleton.hurt
|volume=1.0
|pitch=0.8-1.2
|distance=16}}
| {{SoundLine
|sound=Skeleton death.ogg
|subtitle=Skeleton dies
|source=hostile
|description=When a skeleton dies
|id=entity.skeleton.death
|translationkey=subtitles.entity.skeleton.death
|volume=1.0
|pitch=0.8-1.2
|distance=16}}
| {{SoundLine
|sound=Skeleton step1.ogg
|sound2=Skeleton step2.ogg
|sound3=Skeleton step3.ogg
|sound4=Skeleton step4.ogg
|subtitle=Footsteps
|source=hostile
|description=While a skeleton is walking
|id=entity.skeleton.step
|translationkey=subtitles.block.generic.footsteps
|volume=0.15
|pitch=1.0
|distance=16}}
| {{SoundLine
|sound=Bow shoot.ogg
|subtitle=Skeleton shoots
|source=hostile
|description=When a skeleton shoots an arrow
|id=entity.skeleton.shoot
|translationkey=subtitles.entity.skeleton.shoot
|volume=1.0
|pitch={{frac|5|6}}-1.25
|distance=16}}
| {{SoundLine
|sound=Stray convert1.ogg
|sound2=Stray convert2.ogg
|sound3=Stray convert3.ogg
|subtitle=Skeleton converts to Stray
|source=hostile
|description=When a skeleton converts to a [[stray]]
|id=entity.skeleton.converted_to_stray
|translationkey=subtitles.entity.skeleton.converted_to_stray
|volume=2.0
|pitch=0.8-1.2
| distance = 16
}}
}}

{{Edition|Bedrock}}:
{{SoundTable
| type = bedrock
| {{SoundLine
| sound =Skeleton idle1.ogg
|sound2=Skeleton idle2.ogg
|sound3=Skeleton idle3.ogg
|source=hostile
|description=Randomly
|id=mob.skeleton.say
|volume=1.0
|pitch=0.8-1.2}}
| {{SoundLine
|sound=Skeleton hurt1.ogg
|sound2=Skeleton hurt2.ogg
|sound3=Skeleton hurt3.ogg
|sound4=Skeleton hurt4.ogg
|source=hostile
|description=When a skeleton is damaged
|id=mob.skeleton.hurt
|volume=0.7
|pitch=0.8-1.2}}
| {{SoundLine
|sound=Skeleton death.ogg
|source=hostile
|description=When a skeleton dies
|id=mob.skeleton.death
|volume=1.0
|pitch=0.8-1.2}}
| {{SoundLine
|sound=Skeleton step1.ogg
|sound2=Skeleton step2.ogg
|sound3=Skeleton step3.ogg
|sound4=Skeleton step4.ogg
|source=hostile
|description=While a skeleton is walking
|id=mob.skeleton.step
|volume=1.0
|pitch=1.0}}
| {{SoundLine
|sound=Bow shoot.ogg
|source=player
|description=When a skeleton shoots an arrow
|id=random.bow
|volume=1.0
|pitch=0.83-1.25}}
| {{SoundLine
|sound=Stray convert1.ogg
|sound2=Stray convert2.ogg
|sound3=Stray convert3.ogg
|source=neutral
|description=When a skeleton converts to a stray
|id=mob.skeleton.convert_to_stray
|volume=1.0
| pitch = 1.0
}}
}}

== Data values ==
=== ID ===
{{edition|java}}:
{{ID table
|edition=java
|showentitytags=y
|generatetranslationkeys=y
|displayname=Skeleton
|spritetype=entity
|nameid=skeleton
|entitytags=can_breathe_under_water, ignores_poison_and_regen, inverted_healing_and_harm, no_anger_from_wind_charge, skeletons, undead, wither_friends
|foot=1}}

{{edition|bedrock}}:
{{ID table
|edition=bedrock
|shownumericids=y
|generatetranslationkeys=y
|displayname=Skeleton
|spritetype=entity
|nameid=skeleton
|id=34
|foot=1}}

=== Entity data ===
Skeletons have entity data associated with them that contains various properties.

{{el|java}}:
{{main|Entity format}}
{{/ED}}

{{el|bedrock}}:
: See [[Bedrock Edition level format/Entity format]].

== Achievements ==
{{load achievements|Monster Hunter;Camouflage;Sniper Duel;Overkill;It Spreads;Over-Overkill}}

== Advancements ==
{{load advancements|Adventure;Monster Hunter;Monsters Hunted;Sniper Duel;Take Aim;Arbalistic;A Throwaway Joke;Not Today, Thank You;It Spreads;Over-Overkill}}

== History ==
{{HistoryTable
|{{HistoryLine||August 14, 2009|link={{tumblr|notch|162878409}}|[[Notch]] teased skeletons.}}
|{{HistoryLine|java classic}}|{{HistoryLine||0.24_SURVIVAL_TEST|[[File:Skeleton JE1.png|32px]] Added skeletons. 
|Skeletons spawn randomly in new Survival maps and follow [[player]]s when approached, much like [[zombie]]s.}}
|{{HistoryLine||0.25 SURVIVAL TEST|Skeletons now fire [[Arrow#History|arrows with a purple/magenta colored shaft]], appear to fire [[arrow]]s at a faster and more random rate, and shoot 6 arrows outward a short-range in all directions when dying. Arrows fired by skeletons can be picked up and used by [[player]]s.
|Skeletons now take five hits to kill and can appear wearing NPC [[armor]] (that gave them no additional protection) and gave 120 points when killed.}}
|{{HistoryLine|java indev}}
|{{HistoryLine||0.31|dev=20091223-0040|Skeletons and other mobs no longer spawn naturally.}}
|{{HistoryLine|||dev=20100202|Skeletons and other mobs now spawn naturally again. However, they are currently passive.
|Skeletons no longer wear [[armor]].
|The skeleton's attacking animation has been removed.}}
|{{HistoryLine|||dev=20100204-2027|Skeletons are now hostile again.
|The [[Java Edition unused features#Purple arrow|purple arrow]]s that skeletons throw have been removed and have been replaced by regular (brown) arrows.}}
|{{HistoryLine||20100213|Skeletons now catch on [[fire]] when exposed to sunlight.}}
|{{HistoryLine||20100218|The chances of catching on fire in sunlight have been tweaked for skeletons.
|Skeletons now burn only when the sunlight level is greater than 7, and not due to [[torch]]es at night.{{check version|There was a code change to check what seems to be the world sunlight level, but hasn't been actually verified in-game. The game checked whether it was exposed to sunlight, and the entity's current light level, though.}}}}
|{{HistoryLine||20100219|Skeletons now drop [[arrow]]s.}}
|{{HistoryLine|java alpha}}
|{{HistoryLine||v1.0.3|Added unique idle and hurt sounds for skeletons. Previously, they had no idle sounds and used the hurt sound for players.}}
|{{HistoryLine||v1.2.0|[[File:Skeleton JE2.png|32px]] Skeletons now hold a [[bow]] in their right hand, however they were held as an [[item]] just like a [[player]] would hold it at this period.}}
|{{HistoryLine|java beta}}
|{{HistoryLine||1.2|Skeletons can now [[drop]] 0-2 [[bone]]s, in addition to [[arrow]]s.}}
|{{HistoryLine||1.8|dev=Pre-release|[[File:Skeleton JE3 BE1.png|32px]] The [[bow]]s of skeletons are now larger and held realistically (full-sized bows, two-handed, and pulling the arrow back).
|Skeletons now fire [[arrow]]s slower but further.}}
|{{HistoryLine|java}}
|{{HistoryLine||1.0.0|dev=Beta 1.9 Prerelease|[[File:Skeleton JE4 BE2.png|32px]] Skeletons now hold their [[bow]] with one hand again, but they still have the larger and held realistically bow.}}
|{{HistoryLine||1.2.1|dev=12w04a|The skeleton's AI has been improved: if a skeleton catches [[fire]] in daylight, it rushes to the nearest shadow or body of [[water]].}}
|{{HistoryLine|||dev=12w06a|There now is a 8.5% chance that a skeleton [[drops]] a [[bow]] when killed. There is also a small chance of the bow being [[enchanted]].
|Skeletons no longer spin in circles on non-full-height blocks.}}
|{{HistoryLine||1.4.2|dev=12w32a|Skeletons, [[zombies]] and [[zombie pigmen]] can now pick up dropped [[item]]s. They also have the ability to wear [[armor]] and wield a [[weapon]], so if they pick up armor, they wear it.
|Skeletons, zombies, and zombie pigmen can now spawn wearing any type of armor (including chain); both armor and weapons may be [[enchanted]].}}
|{{HistoryLine|||dev=12w36a|Skeletons may now be found in [[nether fortress]]es along with [[wither skeleton]]s.}}
|{{HistoryLine|||dev=12w37a|[[File:Skeleton with Carved Pumpkin JE4.png|32px]] [[File:Skeleton with Jack o'Lantern JE4.png|32px]] On [[wikipedia:Halloween|Halloween]], skeletons, [[wither skeleton]]s, [[zombie]]s and [[zombie pigmen]] now have a chance of spawning with a [[pumpkin]] or [[jack o'lantern]].}}
|{{HistoryLine|||dev=12w38a|Skeletons now have new [[sound]]s.}}
|{{HistoryLine||1.4.4|dev=1.4.3|Skeletons now rush toward the [[player]], instead of shooting [[arrow]]s, if they don't have a [[bow]].}}
|{{HistoryLine||1.5|dev=13w02a|Skeletons now shoot from a range of 15 blocks instead of 10.
|Accuracy of skeleton can now be changed by changing difficulty.}}
|{{HistoryLine|||dev=13w03a|Skeletons now fire rapidly at players who come within close range, in an attempt to knock them back. This makes melee combat in [[water]] hard.}}
|{{HistoryLine||1.8|dev=14w10a|Skeletons now run away from [[wolves]], instead of fighting back.}}
|{{HistoryLine|||dev=14w11a|Skeletons now run away from [[creeper]]s that are about to explode.}}
|{{HistoryLine|||dev=14w30a|Skeletons now [[drop]] their [[Skeleton Skull|skull]]s when killed by a [[charged creeper]].}}
|{{HistoryLine||1.8.1|dev=pre1|Skeletons no longer run away from [[creeper]]s that are about to explode due to performance issues.}}
|{{HistoryLine||1.9|dev=15w31a|[[File:Skeleton JE5 BE3.png|32px]] Skeletons now lower their arms when idle.
|Skeletons can now, once again, animate their [[bow]]; they pull it out when becoming hostile and draw it back to fire [[arrow]]s.
|Skeletons now have an 11% chance of spawning with their [[bow]] in their left hand.
|Skeletons can [[dual wielding|dual wield]].
|[[File:Skeleton Aiming JE1.png|32px]] Skeletons now hold their bow with two hands again when aiming.}}
|{{HistoryLine|||dev=15w32a|The detection range of skeletons is halved when the [[player]] is wearing a [[skeleton skull]].}}
|{{HistoryLine|||dev=15w38a|Skeletons now shoot one arrow per second and have improved behavior, allowing them to be a bit faster and strafe while shooting.
|Skeletons spawn from [[skeleton trap]] horses.}}
|{{HistoryLine|||dev=15w39a|Skeletons are slightly taller (1.99 blocks tall rather than 1.95).
|Skeletons shoot an arrow every 2 seconds on Easy and Normal instead of 1.}}
|{{HistoryLine|||dev=pre1|Skeletons shoot flaming [[arrow]]s only when burning and regional difficulty is 3 or greater.
|Skeletons holding [[tipped arrow]]s in their off-hand now shoot that type of [[arrow]].
|Entity ID <code>Skeleton</code> is now <code>skeleton</code>, <code>wither_skeleton</code> and <code>stray</code> for those respective [[mob]]s.}}
|{{HistoryLine||1.11|dev=16w32a|Skeletons no longer shoot flaming arrows when they are on fire.<ref>{{Cite bug|MC|217397|Burning skeletons no longer shoot flaming arrows since 16w32a|date=March 1, 2021}}</ref>}}
|{{HistoryLine|||dev=16w40a|Skeletons holding [[spectral arrow]]s in their off-hand now shoot that type of [[arrow]].<ref>{{Cite bug|MC|108188|Spectral arrows not being shot by skeletons|date=October 3, 2016}}</ref>}}
|{{HistoryLine||1.12.1|dev=17w31a|Skeletons no longer pick up items based on their [[Enchanting|enchantments]].}}
|{{HistoryLine||1.13|dev=18w07a|Skeletons seek and attack baby [[turtle]]s.}}
|{{HistoryLine|||dev=18w19a|Skeletons sink underwater.
|Skeletons no longer [[drown]] underwater.}}
|{{HistoryLine||1.14|dev=18w43a|[[File:Skeleton JE6 BE4.png|32px]] The texture of skeletons has been changed.}}
|{{HistoryLine||1.15|dev=19w37a|Mobs that spawn wearing carved pumpkins or jack o'lanterns on Halloween no longer drop them.}}
|{{HistoryLine||1.16|dev=20w06a|Skeletons can now spawn in [[soul sand valley]] biomes.}}
|{{HistoryLine|||dev=Pre-release 4|Increased skeleton's spawning weight in soul sand valleys from 2 to 10.}}
|{{HistoryLine||1.17|dev=21w05a|Skeletons now turn into strays when they are in [[powder snow]].}}
|{{HistoryLine|||dev=21w13a|Decreased stray conversion time in powder snow from 30 to 7 seconds.}}
|{{HistoryLine||1.18|dev=Experimental Snapshot 1|Skeletons now spawn only at light level 0.}}
|{{HistoryLine||1.19|dev=Pre-release 1|Skeletons can now spawn from light level 0 to 11 in the Nether.}}
|{{HistoryLine||1.19.3|dev=22w46a|Skeletons now spawn from light level 0 to 7 in the Nether.}}
|{{HistoryLine||1.20.3|dev=23w40a|Skeletons are now part of the {{cd|#can_breathe_under_water}} and {{cd|#undead}} [[tag]]s.}}
|{{HistoryLine||1.20.3|exp=Update 1.21|dev=23w45a|Skeletons now spawn in [[trial chambers]] behind the "[[Java Edition 1.21|Update 1.21]]" experimental [[data pack]].
|Skeletons from [[trial spawner]]s surrounded by [[bone block]]s, [[podzol]] and [[red mushroom]]s shoot [[tipped arrow]]s of [[Poison]].}}
|{{HistoryLine||1.20.5|exp=Update 1.21|dev=24w04a|Skeletons no longer retaliate against attacks from the [[breeze]].}}
|{{HistoryLine|||dev=24w07a|Trial spawners surrounded by bone blocks, podzol and red mushrooms no longer spawn skeletons with tipped arrows of Poison, and instead spawn [[bogged]].}}
|{{HistoryLine||1.21.4|dev=24w45a|Prefer to pick [[bows]] from the ground as opposed to other items.}}

|{{HistoryLine|pocket alpha}}
|{{HistoryLine||v0.3.3|[[File:Skeleton JE3 BE1.png|32px]] Added skeletons.
|Skeletons use outdated sounds, move slowly, and shoot an arrow every 3 seconds with poor aim.}}
|{{HistoryLine||v0.5.0|Skeletons have new animations.}}
|{{HistoryLine||v0.7.3|Skeletons are now set on fire when exposed to sunlight. Previously, they emitted smoke particles and took damage, but were not visually on fire.}}
|{{HistoryLine||v0.9.0|dev=build 8|Skeletons have new AI.}}
|{{HistoryLine|||dev=build 9|Skeletons use the old AI again because they were not firing [[arrow]]s correctly.}}
|{{HistoryLine||v0.11.0|dev=build 1|[[File:Skeleton JE4 BE2.png|32px]] Skeletons no longer hold [[bow]]s with 2 arms.
|Skeletons may now spawn as the rider of a [[spider jockey]].}}
|{{HistoryLine|||dev=build 9|Burning skeletons now shoot flaming arrows.}}
|{{HistoryLine|||dev=build 14|Skeletons now have improved accuracy.}}
|{{HistoryLine||v0.12.1|dev=build 1|Skeletons use the new AI again, thus improving accuracy, walking and shooting speed, and intelligence.
When skeletons catch fire in the daylight, they hide in the nearest shadow or body of water. Skeletons also avoid falls, [[fire]], [[lava]], and [[cactus]].
|Skeletons may now spawn wearing [[armor]] or enchanted armor.
|Skeletons may now spawn with enchanted [[bow]]s.}}
|{{HistoryLine|||dev=build 12|New [[sound]]s have been added for skeletons.}}
|{{HistoryLine||v0.13.0|dev=build 1|Skeletons now run away from [[wolves]].
|Skeletons now fire faster when [[player]]s get closer to knock them back, especially to players in water.}}
|{{HistoryLine||v0.14.0|dev=build 1|Skeletons are now slightly taller (1.99 blocks tall rather than 1.95).}}
|{{HistoryLine||May 31, 2016|link={{tweet|shoghicp|737654454070173696}}|[[Shoghicp]] asks the community about flaming arrows being shot by burning skeletons.}}
|{{HistoryLine||v0.15.0|dev=build 1|[[File:Skeleton JE5 BE3.png|32px]] Skeletons now animate their [[bow]], they pull it out when becoming hostile and draw it back to shoot [[arrow]]s.
|Skeletons now spawn from [[skeleton trap]] horses.}}
|{{HistoryLine||v0.16.0|dev=build 1|Burning skeletons now shoot flaming [[arrow]]s only if the regional [[difficulty]] is 3 or greater. Prior to this, burning skeletons would always shoot flaming arrows regardless of regional difficulty.}}
|{{HistoryLine|bedrock}}
|{{HistoryLine||1.2.0|dev=beta 1.2.0.2|Skeletons now have a 8.5% chance of [[drop]]ping their equipment. Prior to this, skeletons would never drop their [[bow]] and would always drop always their [[armor]].}}
|{{HistoryLine||1.5.0|dev=beta 1.5.0.0|Skeletons now sink underwater.
|Skeletons no longer die from [[drowning]].
|Skeletons now use melee attacks and stop shooting when underwater.}}
|{{HistoryLine|||dev=beta 1.5.0.4|Skeletons now seek and attack baby [[turtle]]s.}}
|{{HistoryLine||1.10.0|dev=beta 1.10.0.3|[[File:Skeleton JE6 BE4.png|32px]] The texture of skeletons has been changed.|Skeletons once again attack [[iron golem]]s.}}
|{{HistoryLine||1.16.0|dev=beta 1.16.0.51|Skeletons can now spawn in [[soul sand valley]] biomes.
|Skeletons can now pick up [[item]]s.
|Skeleton now use melee attack when not holding bow on their hand, prior to this, skeleton use any items as ranged weapon to shoot arrow normally.}}
|{{HistoryLine||1.17.0|dev=beta 1.17.0.54|Skeletons now turn into strays when they are in [[powder snow]].}}
|{{HistoryLine||1.17.10|dev=beta 1.17.10.20|Decreased stray conversion time in powder snow from 30 to 7 seconds.}}
|{{HistoryLine||1.17.30|dev=beta 1.17.30.20|[[File:Skeleton Aiming JE2 BE3.png|32px]] Skeletons now hold their bow with two hands again when aiming.}}
|{{HistoryLine||1.18.20|dev=Preview 1.18.20.28|Skeletons' melee attack now deals {{hp|2}} damage instead of {{hp|3}} on normal mode.}}
|{{HistoryLine||1.19.60|dev=Preview 1.19.60.22|Skeletons now spawn from light level 0 to 7 in the Nether.}}
|{{HistoryLine||1.20.60|exp=Update 1.21|dev=Preview 1.20.60.20|Skeletons now spawn in [[trial chambers]] behind the "[[Bedrock Edition 1.21.0|Update 1.21]]" [[experimental]] toggle.}}
|{{HistoryLine||1.20.70|exp=Update 1.21|dev=Preview 1.20.70.21|Skeletons no longer retaliate against attacks from [[breeze]]s.}}
|{{HistoryLine|||dev=Preview 1.20.70.24|[[Trial spawner]]s surrounded by [[bone block]]s, [[podzol]] and [[red mushroom]]s no longer spawn skeletons, and instead spawn [[bogged]].}}

|{{HistoryLine|console}}
|{{HistoryLine||xbox=TU1|xbone=CU1|ps3=1.00|psvita=1.00|ps4=1.00|wiiu=Patch 1|switch=1.0.1|[[File:Skeleton JE2.png|32px]] Added skeletons.}}
|{{HistoryLine||xbox=TU5|[[File:Skeleton JE3 BE1.png|32px]] The skeleton's bow is now larger and held more realistically (full-sized bows, two-handed, and pulling the arrow back) than in previous versions (in one hand).
|Skeletons now fire their [[arrow]]s slightly slower. Their arrows, however, are shot with more force.}}
|{{HistoryLine||xbox=TU12|The skeleton's AI has been updated, so they are "smarter", i.e. if a skeleton catches [[fire]] in daylight, it rushes to the nearest shadow or body of [[water]] for safety.
|There is now a small chance that skeletons [[drop]] a [[bow]] when killed. There is now also a small chance of the bow being [[enchanted]].}}
|{{HistoryLine||xbox=TU19|xbone=CU7|ps3=1.12|psvita=1.12|ps4=1.12|Skeletons can now spawn wearing [[armor]] and [[weapon]]s.
|Once the [[player]] gets closer to a skeleton, the skeleton now fires [[arrow]]s more frequently.|[[File:Skeleton with Carved Pumpkin JE4.png|32px]] [[File:Skeleton with Jack o'Lantern JE4.png|32px]] On [[wikipedia:Halloween|Halloween]], skeletons, [[wither skeleton]]s, [[zombie]]s and [[zombie pigmen]] now have a chance of spawning with a [[pumpkin]] or [[jack o'lantern]].{{check version}}|Skeletons may now be found in [[nether fortress]]es along with [[wither skeleton]]s.|Skeletons now have a new death sound. Previously it made the same sound as when taking damage.}}
|{{HistoryLine||xbox=TU31|xbone=CU19|ps3=1.22|psvita=1.22|ps4=1.22|wiiu=Patch 3|Skeletons now run away from [[wolves]], instead of fighting back.
|Skeletons now [[drop]] their [[Skeleton Skull|skull]] when killed by a charged [[creeper]].}}
|{{HistoryLine||xbox=TU46|xbone=CU33|ps3=1.36|psvita=1.36|ps4=1.36|wiiu=Patch 13|Skeletons now use the [[Java_Edition_removed_features#Mob_sounds|old sound]] for dying.}}
|{{HistoryLine||xbox=TU46|xbone=CU36|ps3=1.38|psvita=1.38|ps4=1.38|wiiu=Patch 15|Skeletons may now spawn from [[skeleton trap]] horses.
|Skeletons now have a new AI that allows them to strafe while attacking.
|[[File:Skeleton JE5 BE3.png|32px]] Skeletons now lower their arms when idle.|Skeletons now have a chance of spawning with their [[bow]] in their left hand.}}
|{{HistoryLine||xbox=TU57|xbone=CU49|ps3=1.57|psvita=1.56|ps4=1.56|wiiu=Patch 27|switch=1.0.7|Skeletons no longer attack [[iron golem]]s.}}
|{{HistoryLine||xbox=TU69|xbone=none|ps3=1.76|psvita=1.76|ps4=1.76|wiiu=Patch 38|switch=none|Skeletons sink underwater.{{verify}}|Skeletons no longer [[drown]] underwater.{{verify}}}}


|{{HistoryLine|3ds}}
|{{HistoryLine||0.1.0|[[File:Skeleton JE4 BE2.png|32px]] Added skeletons.}}
}}

Historical sounds:

{| class="wikitable"
! Sound
! From
! to
! Pitch
|-
| {{sound|Hurt/Die|Skeleton hurt1 Revision 1.ogg|Skeleton hurt2 Revision 1.ogg|Skeleton hurt3 Revision 1.ogg|Skeleton hurt4 Revision 1.ogg|Skeleton death old.ogg}}
| Alpha v1.0.3
| 1.4.2{{check version}}
| 1.0
|}

== Issues ==
{{issue list}}

== Trivia ==
* If alerted to a [[player]]'s presence, a skeleton can fire [[arrow]]s backward, occasionally hitting themselves.
* The artificial intelligence of skeletons {{in|be}} is a mix of skeleton AI from {{el|je}} between versions 1.5 and 1.8.9 and the skeletons in [[Update Aquatic]]. They shoot faster when they are on land and the target underwater, causing enough knockback to make combat hard. Additionally, they do not strafe left to right, and they shoot more rapidly at closer targets. Skeletons also use ranged attacks on land and switch to melee attacks when sinking underwater.
* {{IN|java}}, 89% of skeletons hold their [[bow]] in their right hand and 11% with the left. This reflects estimated [[wikipedia:Handedness|handedness percentages in the real world]].
* If a skeleton has a [[sword]] or any other melee item, generally with commands, its [[AI]] resembles the [[wither skeleton]]'s AI.
* {{IN|BE}}, skeletons do not animate their [[bow]].
* [[C418]] used [https://freesound.org/people/jppi_Stu/sounds/17090/ bamboo wind chime sounds] as a base for the skeleton sounds.<ref>https://freesound.org/people/C418/downloaded_sounds/?page=1#sound</ref>

== Gallery ==
=== Renders ===
==== Poses ====
<gallery>
Spider Jockey.png|A [[spider jockey]] with a skeleton.
Cave Spider Jockey.png|A [[cave spider]] jockey with a skeleton.
Skeleton Without Bow.png|A skeleton without a [[bow]] spawned by {{cmd|/summon}} [[commands]].
Skeleton with Spyglasses.png|A skeleton wearing two [[spyglass]]es in [[Java Edition 22w13oneBlockAtATime]].
Skeleton Aiming JE2 BE3.png|Aiming
</gallery>

==== Armored ====
<gallery>
Skeleton in leather armor.png
Skeleton in golden armor.png
Skeleton in chainmail armor.png
Skeleton in iron armor.png
Skeleton in diamond armor.png
Skeleton in netherite armor.png
</gallery>

=== Screenshots ===
<gallery>
Skeleton comparison.png|A skeleton being compared to its variants {{in|je}}.
Skeleton 1.8.2.png|A skeleton in [[Java Edition Beta 1.8]]. The [[player]] can see it wielding its bow with both hands.
Skeleton Death.jpg|Dying skeleton mob {{in|be}}.
Skeleton Death.png|Dying skeleton mob {{in|je}}.
SkeletonvsSpiderJockeySkeleton.png|Two skeletons shooting each other. The skeleton on the right is a [[spider jockey]].
Nether Skeleton.png|A skeleton in [[the Nether]] used as the [[12w36a]] snapshot image.
Skeletonmcpe.png|A skeleton in ''[[Bedrock Edition]]''. Like in [[Beta 1.8]], it holds its [[bow]] with both hands and it doesn't animate it's bow.
MinecartSkeleton.png|A skeleton riding a [[minecart]].
Skeleton kills wolf.png|A skeleton kills an attacking [[wolf]].
StrayAndSkeleton.png|A [[stray]] standing next to a normal skeleton.
Skeleton Helmet 1.png|A skeleton wearing an [[iron helmet]].
Skeleton Helmet 2.png|A skeleton wearing a [[leather cap]].
Behind Scenes 1.png|A [[player]] trying to give [[armor]] to a skeleton.
SkeletonRiderGroup.png|Skeletons spawned from [[skeleton trap]] horses.
Unarmed Skeleton.png|A glitch where skeletons have no [[bow]].
Skeleton bling.jpg|Naturally [[armor]]ed skeletons.
Pumpkinskeletonspider.png|Skeleton with a [[pumpkin]] on [[wikipedia:Halloween|Halloween]].
Skeleton Golden.png|A skeleton with a white-dyed [[leather]] full set.
SkeletonvsSkeleton2.png|2 skeletons fighting each other.
Chainmail Skeleton.png|A skeleton with full chainmail armor looking at the player.
Skeleton Jockey.png|A skeleton jockey.
Skeleton on Halloween.png|Skeleton wearing a pumpkin on Halloween.
Left Handed Skeleton.png|A left handed skeleton in a [[superflat]] world with a [[zombie]] and a [[spider]] in the background.
</gallery>
=== In Other Media ===
<gallery>
Image:Skeleton_(24w14potato).png|Potato variant of Skeleton in [[24w14potato]] snapshot 
</gallery>

== Mojang images ==
<gallery>
MInecraft-Nether-Soulsand-Valley-03.jpg|A preview featuring skeletons in the [[soul sand valley]].
EndermenRedditEnhanced.jpg|To the left is (or ''was'') a skeleton holding the bow the wrong way.
Leggings Skeletons.png|First image of skeletons wearing armor.
Dual Wielding Skeleton.png|First image of a skeleton duel wielding.
Pocket Edition Armored Skeleton.jpg|An armored skeleton in ''Bedrock Edition''.
Jappa Undead Mobs.jpg|A skeleton and [[zombie]] in a cave.
Alpha Skeleton.png|A skeleton in alpha.
Skeleton scoring big in the floor routine.jpeg|Skeleton scoring big in the floor routine.
</gallery>

=== Textures ===
<gallery class="pixel-image">
Skeleton (texture).png|Skeleton texture file.
Skeleton (texture) JE1 BE1.png|[[Programmer Art]]
</gallery>

=== In other media ===
==== Merchandise ====
<gallery>
Skeleton Marketplace Banner Sprite.png|Pixel art of a skeleton used on a banner for the [[Minecraft Marketplace]]
LEGO Skeleton.png|[[Lego Minecraft]] Skeleton.
Skeleton Plush JINX.jpg|Official skeleton plush made by JINX.
Skelly Dreams JINX.jpg|Official T-shirt artwork "Skelly Dreams" made by JINX.
City Skeleton.png|[[Texture Pack DLC|City texture pack]]
Skeleton TP.png|[[Texture Pack DLC|Plastic texture pack]]
Party Skeleton.png|Party Skeleton, a skin featured in the 1st [[Skin pack|Birthday skin pack]].
Halloween Shackled Skeleton.png|[[Mash-up Pack|Halloween mash-up pack]]
</gallery>

==== Other appearances ====
<gallery>
Skeleton Minecraft Instagram.jpg|Artwork of a skeleton.
Winter is coming.gif|Animation of undead mobs walking on snow, including skeletons.
Caves & Cliffs cover art.png|A Skeleton in promotional artwork for the first [[Caves & Cliffs]] update.
Caves & Cliffs (Part II) Artwork.jpg|Skeletons in promotional artwork for the second [[Caves & Cliffs]] update.
NintendoWiiUMinecraftWallpaper.png|Skeletons in the key art for the [[Wii U Edition]].
SSBU spirit Skeleton.png|Skeleton Spirit from ''[[Super Smash Bros. Ultimate]]''.
Minecraft Movie Skeleton Concept Art.jpg|Skeleton concept art for the [[Minecraft movie]].
</gallery>

== References ==
{{Reflist}}

== Navigation ==
{{Navbox mobs}}

[[Category:Hostile mobs]]
[[Category:Undead mobs]]
[[Category:Monster mobs]]
[[Category:Nether mobs]]

[[cs:Kostlivec]]
[[de:Skelett]]
[[el:Σκελετοί]]
[[es:Esqueleto]]
[[fr:Squelette]]
[[hu:Csontváz]]
[[it:Scheletro]]
[[ja:スケルトン]]
[[ko:스켈레톤]]
[[lzh:骷髏]]
[[nl:Skelet]]
[[pl:Szkielet]]
[[pt:Esqueleto]]
[[ru:Скелет]]
[[th:โครงกระดูก]]
[[tr:İskelet]]
[[uk:Скелет]]
[[zh:骷髅]]
