Cow in Austria Becomes First Documented Case of Tool Use in Cattle

A scientific study published in Current Biology has reported the first confirmed instance of tool use in cattle, focusing on a pet cow named Veronika in Austria. Researchers observed and tested this behavior under controlled conditions, marking a new development in the understanding of animal tool use.

Veronika, a 13-year-old Swiss Brown cow kept by organic farmer and baker Witgar Wiegele, was seen using a deck brush to scratch various parts of her body. The research team from the University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, designed experiments to systematically observe and record this activity.

During the trials, Veronika demonstrated the ability to use both the bristled end and the smooth handle of the brush. She selected the bristled end for scratching firm areas such as her back, while choosing the handle for more sensitive spots on her lower body. This approach was described by researchers as flexible, multi-purpose tool use.

The study documented 76 separate instances of tool use by Veronika, gathered over seven sessions, each consisting of ten trials. These observations were systematically recorded to ensure accuracy and repeatability in the findings.

What the numbers show

• 76 instances of tool use were recorded
• Seven sessions of ten trials each were conducted
• Veronika is 13 years old

The research team stated that this is the first time such behavior has been scientifically documented in cattle. Previous studies have only convincingly shown this type of flexible, multi-purpose tool use in chimpanzees among non-human species.

The published study provides evidence that cattle are capable of using objects in their environment to achieve specific outcomes. The findings were based on direct observation and controlled experimental trials, which allowed the researchers to verify the behavior under consistent conditions.

According to the study, the use of different parts of the tool for distinct body areas suggests a level of adaptability in Veronika’s actions. The researchers emphasized the novelty of this observation within the context of cattle behavior research.

The study appeared in the journal Current Biology, contributing new data to the field of animal cognition and tool use. The documentation of this behavior in a domesticated cow expands the understanding of cognitive abilities in livestock species.

* This article is based on publicly available information at the time of writing.