tech
January 19, 2026
Back-scratching bovine leads scientists to reassess intelligence of cows
Brown Swiss in Austria has been discovered using tools in different ways – something only ever seen in humans and chimpanzees
TL;DR
- Veronika, a 13-year-old cow from Austria, has shown remarkable tool-use skills.
- She uses a deck brush to scratch herself, demonstrating selection and adjustment of the tool.
- Veronika uses different ends of the brush for different body parts, indicating flexible tool use.
- This behavior challenges previous assumptions about the intelligence of cattle.
- Tool use, particularly multi-purpose tool use, is considered extraordinarily rare beyond humans and chimpanzees.
- Researchers believe cattle may possess greater intelligence and potential for innovation than previously realized.
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