A Cow’s Clever Trick: Meet Veronika, the Tool-Using Bovine

In a quiet Austrian farm, a cow named Veronika has been doing something extraordinary. She’s using tools to scratch herself.

A Rare and Clever Behavior

This isn’t just a random action. Veronika picks branches, holds them with her mouth, and scratches her skin. It’s a clever way to relieve irritation. This behavior is rare. Until now, only a few animals, like chimpanzees and whales, have shown such skills.

Scientists Study Veronika

Scientists in Vienna studied Veronika. They watched her closely. She didn’t just use any branch. She chose the right one for the job. Sometimes she picked soft bristles. Other times, she went for a stiffer point. She even changed her technique depending on what she needed to scratch. This shows she thinks about her actions. It’s not just instinct.

A Unique Environment

Veronika’s life is different from most cows. She lives in an open space with many objects to play with. This environment might have helped her develop her skills. Most cows are raised for milk or meat. They don’t have the same chances to explore. Veronika’s case makes scientists wonder if other cows could also use tools. They are looking for more examples.

A Sign of Intelligence

Using tools is a big deal in the animal world. It’s a sign of intelligence. Until now, only a few animals could do it. Veronika’s actions suggest that cows might be smarter than we thought. This discovery could change how we see these animals. It’s a reminder that intelligence comes in many forms.