Niger shooter

"Niger shooter".(Mex.Spa. = "nigasura")
I am informed that this might be a Texan term for what is more commonly known as a catapult (or slingshot in AmE)...ie. "A plaything consisting of a Y-shaped stick with elastic between the arms; used to propel small stones."
Is this term familiar to anyone?
If so, what is a "niger"?
Some sort of squirrel, has been suggested.
My thanks for any responses.
ranolki