Researchers have captured footage of an Austrian cow using a broom and other items to groom itself. This is the first time cattle have been observed using tools in a flexible way, meaning the cow adapted how it used the objects.
Researchers published a fascinating observation in the journal Current Biology: a 13-year-old Brown Swiss cow named Veronika has learned to use a brush with her mouth to scratch areas she couldn’t reach otherwise.
Okay, so scientists are saying this orangutan is seriously smart! She’s using a brush like a tool – not just grabbing it, but actually figuring out how to use both ends to clean different spots. Apparently, that’s a big deal because we usually only see that kind of problem-solving with tool use in animals like chimps and crows. It’s cool to see an orangutan doing it!
Cow filmed using tools in rare footage
Researchers at the University of Veterinary Medicine in Vienna studied Veronika’s behavior across several tests.
She used her tongue to lift a deck brush from the floor and cleverly positioned it so she could use the bristles to scratch large parts of her body, like her back.
When handling delicate areas, she switched to the tool’s smoother grip, demonstrating she could adjust her technique and had a clear reason for how she used it, scientists observed.
The study found that Veronika repeatedly scratched areas she couldn’t normally reach, suggesting she was trying to relieve an itch, probably from insects. Her ability to adjust her grip and use different scratching techniques shows she was thoughtfully responding to where she itched and finding the best way to scratch it.
Researchers find this behavior interesting because cows aren’t typically known for using tools to solve problems.
Researchers pointed out that Veronika’s life as a pampered farm animal likely gave her advantages over cows raised for agricultural purposes, who generally don’t live as long. Her unique situation may have allowed her more opportunities.
Scientists recently achieved a surprising feat by genetically engineering mice to have sperm that glows. The research, published earlier this month, highlights another instance of science and the animal world converging in unexpected ways.
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2026-01-20 19:51