Antonio Osuna-Mascaró, a scientist, along with Alice Auersperg, were captivated by a video showcasing Veronika the cow using a branch to scratch herself. This unique behavior prompted them to immediately journey from Vienna to southern Austria to meet her. The duo, who specialize in studying tool utilization in non-human creatures, were astonished by Veronika’s adeptness in using the broom they provided her. Their study, recently published in the journal Current Biology, challenges preconceived notions regarding the intelligence of cows.
Veronika, a 13-year-old brown Swiss cow residing in a quaint Austrian mountain village, impressed researchers with her broom-handling skills, revealing a seldom-seen facet of tool use in livestock. Her owner, Witgar Wiegele, observed her using branches for self-scratching nearly a decade ago, gradually mastering the technique to address different itchy areas on her body.
Veronika swiftly demonstrated her proficiency to the scientists upon their arrival, showcasing her ability to effectively utilize the broom for scratching. The researchers aimed to evaluate if Veronika’s actions aligned with the concept of “flexible tooling,” which involves using an object to extend one’s reach and apply force to a target. Notably, Veronika displayed a preference for the bristled side of the broom and adopted varied techniques to cater to different body areas.
The study highlights the unprecedented display of flexible tool use in cattle through scientific experimentation, with Benjamin Beck, a co-author of the book “Animal Tool Behavior,” acknowledging the significance of Veronika’s actions. While opinions remain divided on the implications of tool use in animals, documented instances continue to emerge across various species, showcasing the remarkable adaptability and intelligence present in the animal kingdom.
From dolphins utilizing shells to elephants showering themselves with hoses, the spectrum of tool use in animals is expanding, challenging traditional perceptions of cognitive abilities in non-human beings. The evolution of understanding in this field, sparked by trailblazers like Jane Goodall documenting tool use in chimpanzees, underscores the importance of exploring the cognitive capacities of all creatures, including those commonly overlooked like livestock.
