Ichneumon - Definition - Law Dictionary Home Dictionary Definition ichneumon

Definition :

Any carnivorous mammal of the genus Herpestes and family Viverridaelig Numerous species are found in Asia and Africa The Egyptian species Herpestes ichneumon which ranges to Spain and Palestine is noted for destroying the eggs and young of the crocodile as well as various snakes and lizards and hence was considered sacred by the ancient Egyptians The common species of India Herpestes griseus known as the mongoose has similar habits and is often domesticated It is noted for killing the cobra