Resourceful Rodent. Ichneumons have a keen animal intelligence, and they make an innovative use of their environment. A musky oil with insulating properties coats the fur of an ichneumon, granting it a measure of protection. When an ichneumon has the luxury of time to prepare before hunting, it finds the nearest source of mud and applies layer after layer to itself. The mud bonds with the creature's oily coat and forms a hard, thick outer armor, enhancing its natural protections.