An Austrian cow named Veronika has captured global attention after being identified as the first known cow in human history to deliberately use tools, prompting scientists to reassess the cognitive abilities of livestock.
A video of Veronika went viral on social media, showing her using objects such as sticks, a broom, and a rake to scratch different parts of her body. The footage sparked scientific interest and led researchers to closely study her behavior.
According to a study published in the scientific journal Current Biology by researchers from the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veronika’s actions meet the formal definition of “tool use.” Scientists say this is the first documented case of such advanced behavior in domesticated cattle, which have lived alongside humans for nearly 10,000 years.
The research revealed that during multiple experimental sessions, Veronika showed clear decision-making skills. She preferred the bristled end of a broom for scratching tougher areas of her body, while switching to the smoother end when reaching softer or lower parts. Experts describe this ability to use different parts of a tool for different purposes as “multi-purpose tool use,” a behavior considered extremely rare among non-primate animals.
Researchers also observed that if the broom was positioned incorrectly, Veronika would first adjust it using her tongue and then secure it with her teeth before scratching. Across seven observation sessions, she was seen using tools 76 times to reach areas of her body that would otherwise be inaccessible.
Veronika’s caretaker, organic farmer and baker Witger Wäggele from Austria’s Carinthia region, said the behavior developed gradually. He explained that the cow initially began playing with pieces of wood years ago and eventually learned to use them to scratch herself. Wäggele said Veronika’s unusual intelligence surprised him and taught him that humans can learn patience, calmness, and gentleness from animals as well.
Scientists note that tool use has previously been observed in wild animals, such as monkeys cracking nuts with stones, orangutans using leaves to alter sounds, or elephants covering their dead with soil. However, Veronika’s case represents the first verified evidence of such intelligence in cattle.
The discovery has not only fascinated social media users worldwide but has also encouraged scientists to rethink the mental capacities of cows and other domesticated animals. Veronika’s behavior serves as a powerful reminder that intelligence in nature is not limited to humans or a select few species.
