A cow named Veronika in Austria has amazed scientists with her ability to use a broom to scratch herself. The researchers, Antonio Osuna-Mascaró and Alice Auersperg from the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, were intrigued when they saw a video of Veronika using a branch to scratch her backside, prompting them to travel five hours to meet her.
Veronika, a 13-year-old brown Swiss cow, lives in a village in southern Austria and has been using tools to scratch herself for several years. When presented with a broom by the scientists, she demonstrated remarkable dexterity in using it to relieve her itches in various ways.
The researchers published their findings in the journal Current Biology, challenging previous beliefs about the intelligence of cows. Veronika’s ability to use the broom for different purposes, such as scratching her back with the bristles and her belly with the handle, showcases her cognitive skills.
This behavior of flexible tool use in cattle is a rare phenomenon, although other animals like water buffalos have been observed using tools for similar purposes. The study highlights the increasing evidence of tool use among animals, indicating broader cognitive abilities beyond what was previously understood.
The researchers emphasize the importance of studying tool use in common livestock animals like cows to better appreciate their cognitive capacities, which are often underestimated. Veronika’s unique skills shed light on the intelligence and adaptability of animals that are commonly overlooked in research.