Meet Veronika, the tool-using cow

In a delightful twist reminiscent of classic cartoons, a Swiss brown cow named Veronika from Austria is captivating the attention of both scientists and animal lovers alike. Known for her unusual habit of picking up sticks to scratch herself, Veronika’s actions have sparked a conversation about the cognitive abilities of cows, traditionally underestimated by researchers. A recent study published in Current Biology highlights this behavior as a form of multipurpose tool use. This revelation suggests that the capacity for tool use, once deemed exclusive to humans, may extend to other species as well. While tool use has been identified in various animals, including primates and even dolphins, the implications of Veronika’s actions provide fresh insights into the intelligence of cattle. Historically, tool use was seen as a hallmark of human behavior, with examples eventually emerging in other mammals. For instance, dolphins demonstrate their intelligence through playful object tossing, which some scientists interpret as a form of tool use. Similarly, octopuses have shown comparable behaviors in their environments. Birds, the only surviving descendants of dinosaurs, have also been observed employing tools in the wild, primarily among corvids like crows and jays. These birds exhibit remarkable cognitive skills, such as remembering faces and recognizing deceased companions. One striking example occurred in 2012, when a captive cockatoo named Figaro ingeniously used a stick to retrieve a stone that had fallen out of reach. After initially failing with a short stick, Figaro skillfully broke off a piece of his enclosure to successfully reach a nut placed as a reward. These instances challenge our understanding of animal intelligence and suggest that many species, including cows, may possess greater cognitive abilities than previously acknowledged. Veronika's story is not just a charming anecdote but a significant contribution to the study of animal behavior and cognition.