New behavior shocks science: a cow uses a brush
The footage that caught the eye of cognitive biologist Alice Auersperg at the University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, shows Veronika, a cow with an inquisitive streak, interacting with a common grooming tool in an unexpected way. For the first time on record, Veronika is documented using a brush as a tool to scratch specific parts of her body. This notable behavior has sparked conversations about animal intelligence, problem-solving, and the practical implications for animal welfare on farms.
What makes this cow’s behavior remarkable
Unlike typical grooming routines where cattle rely on natural reflexes or social licking, Veronika appears to manipulate the brush with purpose. She adjusts her hold, changes the pressure she applies, and reaches multiple body areas that would otherwise require awkward contortion to scratch. The precision suggests more than routine play; it hints at an understanding of the tool’s function and an ability to tailor use to individual needs.
The science behind tool use in non-primate mammals
Tool use is relatively rare among cows and is more commonly associated with primates and some birds. When researchers observe a mammal learning to use a tool to achieve a goal, it broadens our understanding of cognitive flexibility across species. Veronika’s behavior indicates curiosity, problem-solving, and perhaps even planning, traits that scientists typically associate with higher-order cognition. These insights can inform how we interpret cattle behavior, welfare, and enrichment needs in husbandry settings.
Implications for animal welfare and farm management
From a welfare perspective, a cow that uses a brush to relieve irritation or reach hard-to-scratch areas may signal both comfort and adaptive coping strategies. Enrichment programs that introduce simple tools could reduce stress, promote natural behaviors, and support physical well-being. Farmers and veterinarians may consider providing safe, supervised grooming implements as part of daily routines, provided the tools are hygienic and supervised to prevent injury or misuse.
Veronika’s story in context
Veronika’s case is part of a broader effort to document cognitive milestones in farm animals. Researchers emphasize that this is not merely a novelty; it reflects the dynamic range of behaviors cattle can exhibit when given opportunities and stimulation. The observation, filmed with care and analyzed by experts, contributes to ongoing discussions about how we define intelligence in animals and how we design environments that respect their mental lives.
What researchers look for next
Future studies may investigate whether Veronika’s brush use is learned from peers, trial-and-error experimentation, or a response to environmental cues. Scientists may also explore whether similar tool-use behaviors emerge in other cattle when provided with appropriate tools and enrichment. This line of inquiry holds promise for refining our understanding of cattle cognition and for improving welfare standards across dairy and beef farms.
Conclusion: a small action with big implications
Veronika’s brush-assisted scratching marks a milestone in animal behavior research. It challenges assumptions about what cows can understand and do, and it invites a reevaluation of enrichment strategies in animal husbandry. As researchers continue to document and analyze such behaviors, the dairy industry stands to gain in both scientific insight and animal welfare outcomes.
