skulk

skulk \SKUHLK\, intransitive verb:

1. To hide, or get out of the way, in a sneaking manner; to lurk.
2. To move about in a stealthy way.
3. To avoid responsibilities and duties.
4. One who skulks.
5. A group of foxes.

When not rummaging under bushes, Mr. Sculley can often be seen skulking in the woods or prowling along the shore.
-- Tom Gilling, The Sooterkin

He was forced to creep and skulk into every place for fear of being taken and hanged.
-- Anthony Wood, Athenae Oxoniensus

He skulked back from the shop with his purchase, hugging the walls, looking at no one, all the more panicky because he knew no other way home.
-- Patrick Chamoiseau, School Days (translated by Linda Coverdale)

Skulk is from Middle English skulken, ultimately of Scandinavian origin.