In a recent interview, cognitive biologists Antonio Osuna-Mascaró and Alice Auersperg shared their awe-inspiring experience with Veronika, a cow demonstrating exceptional tool use skills. The researchers were captivated when they witnessed Veronika using a branch to scratch herself, prompting them to embark on a five-hour journey to meet her in southern Austria.
Upon meeting Veronika, the scientists were amazed by her swift and skillful utilization of a broom to alleviate her itches. Their groundbreaking findings, published in the journal Current Biology, challenge existing beliefs about the intelligence of cows.
Living in a mountain village in Austria, 13-year-old Veronika impressively showcased her ability to employ various tools for self-scratching, adapting her techniques based on the specific itch locations. Notably, she demonstrated a preference for utilizing different parts of the broom to address different parts of her body.
Renowned scientist Benjamin Beck hailed Veronika’s behavior as a prime example of flexible tool use in animals. While this marks the first documented instance of such behavior in cattle through scientific experimentation, previous observations have shown tool use among animals like water buffalos.
Veronika’s remarkable skills add to the growing body of evidence showcasing tool use across various animal species, challenging traditional notions of animal cognition. From dolphins using shells to elephants showering themselves with hoses, animals are continually demonstrating their resourcefulness and intelligence through tool use.