Cows have now been observed using tools intentionally, showcasing adaptability rarely noted in non-primates. A Swiss Brown cow named Veronika has participated in a series of controlled experiments that reveal this surprising capability.
Cognitive biologist Alice Auersperg from the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna highlights that this discovery challenges existing assumptions about livestock intelligence, suggesting that prior limitations in understanding may stem from inadequate observations rather than a lack of cognitive capacity.
Historically, humans have viewed themselves as the only species capable of deliberate tool use, a position that has been reassessed following findings about various non-primates, such as crows and orcas. Although cows are often underestimated, evidence indicates they may possess sophisticated behavioural skills.
Veronika belongs to Austrian farmer and baker Witgar Wiegele, who has long observed her using sticks to scratch difficult-to-reach itches. Intrigued by a video of this behaviour, Auersperg and colleague Antonio Osuna-Mascaró designed experiments to assess Veronika’s tool-use abilities.
In these experiments, Veronika encountered an asymmetrical broom featuring stiff bristles on one end and a handle on the other. Researchers hoped to determine whether she would use the broom consistently to scratch her itches. Over seven sessions, Veronika scratched herself 76 times with the broom, outperforming expectations.
She demonstrated a nuanced understanding by employing the brush end for her thicker skin and the handle for more sensitive areas, illustrating context-sensitive tool use. Osuna-Mascaró noted that Veronika’s tool use reflected her awareness of the outcomes of her actions, adapting her movements based on the situation.
The ability to use tools for multiple purposes is uncommon in the animal kingdom, primarily observed in chimpanzees. However, the researchers believe that Veronika’s longevity and environment may have enhanced her skills. They encourage the public to report any similar observations of purposeful tool use among cattle.
Vocabulary List:
- Adaptability /ædæpˈtæbɪlɪti/ (noun): The ability to adjust to new conditions.
- Reassessed /ˌriːəˈsɛst/ (verb): Evaluated again often to change a previous opinion or conclusion.
- Cognitive /ˈkɒɡ.nɪ.tɪv/ (adjective): Relating to the mental processes of perception memory judgment and reasoning.
- Sophisticated /səˈfɪs.tɪ.keɪ.tɪd/ (adjective): Complex or intricate; showing refined knowledge and understanding.
- Purposeful /ˈpɜː.pəs.fəl/ (adjective): Having a determined and intentional quality.
- Context-sensitive /ˈkɒn.tɛkst ˈsɛn.sɪ.tɪv/ (adjective): Dependent on the context or situation in which something occurs.
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