A Cow That Changed Minds
Scientists are reconsidering what cows are capable of after an Austrian cow named Veronika was observed using tools with remarkable precision.
The discovery, reported by researchers in Vienna, challenges long-held assumptions about cattle intelligence and suggests cows may possess far more advanced cognitive abilities than previously believed.
Veronika’s Unusual Talent
Veronika, a Swiss brown cow living in a quiet mountain village in Austria, has spent years perfecting a unique skill: scratching herself using tools.
She regularly uses sticks, rakes, and brooms, carefully manipulating them to reach hard-to-scratch areas of her body. What stood out to scientists was not just the behavior itself—but how deliberately she did it.
A Multi-Purpose Tool User
Researchers discovered that Veronika used different ends of the same object for different purposes.
For tough spots like her back, she chose the bristle end of a broom for a firm scratch.
For more sensitive areas, such as her underbelly, she switched to the smooth handle for a gentler touch.
This level of decision-making suggests a clear understanding of the tool’s function.
A First for Cattle Science
Tool use is rare in the animal kingdom and had never before been documented in cows.
Dr. Antonio Osuna-Mascaró from the University of Veterinary Medicine in Vienna said the discovery was unexpected.
“We were not expecting cows to be able to use tools,” he said. “And we were certainly not expecting a cow to use a tool as a multipurpose object.”
Until now, this type of flexible tool use had been consistently observed only in chimpanzees.
Rethinking Animal Intelligence
Chimpanzees are known for sophisticated behaviors, such as using sticks to gather insects or stones to crack nuts. Despite humans living alongside cattle for nearly 10,000 years, no similar behavior had ever been formally recorded in cows—until Veronika.
Researchers believe this discovery suggests cows are far more intelligent and adaptable than commonly assumed. Given the right environment, other cows may also be capable of developing similar skills.
A Message From the Meadow
Veronika’s owner, organic farmer Witgar Wiegele, hopes her story will inspire people to rethink how they view animals and nature.
“Save the nature, then you protect yourself,” he said. “Nature diversity is the key to survive on this planet.”