Veronica the cow: A groundbreaking example of non-primate mammal tool use Antonio J. Osuna Mascaro
Recently, while riding in a taxi, the driver shared a transformative experience involving a pig. My childhood with dogs shaped my expectations of animals, but my encounter with pigs was eye-opening.
The driver explained how he constructed a bell-and-string system that allowed the animals to signal when they wanted to go outside. Interestingly, both dogs and pigs learned this cue, but the pigs took it further by ringing the bell to inform their humans about the dogs waiting outside. The driver spoke of these moments with affection and pride. Remarkably, I later learned that this had changed his dietary choices—he no longer eats pork.
This narrative reflects a broader trend in research on animal cognition. Historically, scientists focused primarily on non-human primates, often deemed the “feathered apes,” like parrots and crows. Recently, however, studies have expanded to include a variety of species, such as honey bees, octopuses, and crocodiles.
In line with this expanded focus, new research conducted by Antonio Osuna Mascaro and Alice Auersperg at the University of Veterinary Medicine in Vienna investigates the cognitive abilities of cows, an often-overlooked species. Veronica, a pet cow (Bos taurus), displays remarkable innovation by using a broom to scratch her body. She employs the bristles for her back and flips it over for her more sensitive areas.
This observation marks the first documented instance of flexible tool use among non-primate mammals. What does Veronica’s tool use reveal about her cognition, and might it change how we view and treat cows?
Tool use, in broad terms, is defined as the manipulation of an object to achieve a specific goal. This definition excludes behaviors like nest-building or hiding, where actions serve static ends. Instead, true tool use involves active manipulation, such as using a stone to crack nuts or a stick to extract termites.
For many years, tool use was considered a trait unique to humans. This notion changed when Jane Goodall observed a chimpanzee named David Greybeard creating and utilizing tools to fish for termites. Subsequent discoveries revealed tool use in unexpected corners of the animal kingdom. For instance, antlion larvae throw sand at prey, while certain digger wasp species employ pebbles in their burrows. Such specialized behaviors evolved over millions of years, contrasting with the flexible tool use demonstrated by animals like Veronica.
Veronica cleverly uses different broom sides for various scratches Antonio J. Osuna Mascaro
Remarkably, Veronica learned to use tools independently, progressing from twigs to the intelligent use of a broom without any direct teaching.
This behavior suggests that Veronica possesses cognitive traits described by psychologists, notably those identified by Josep Cole. Three key elements define a creative tool user. Firstly, the ability to gather and learn about the physical properties of objects. Secondly, combining this knowledge to navigate challenges—understanding that a hard object can provide relief for an itch. Lastly, the willingness to manipulate objects creatively, as mere physical capability is insufficient. For example, while both squirrel monkeys and capuchin monkeys possess similar hands, only capuchins tent to exhibit object manipulation.
This insight into cow cognition may revolutionize how we treat farm animals. Research indicates a correlation between perceived intelligence and how we consider animals’ worthiness of ethical treatment. In one study, participants rated animals with lower intelligence as more edible, while higher-assigned intelligence led to lower perceptions of their edibility. Participants introduced to the Bennett’s tree kangaroo perceived those identified as food as lacking in sentience.
Our treatment of animals correlates significantly with our perception of their intellect. Veronica’s story is likely the first of many that will challenge our views of “simple” domestic animals. For this knowledge to reshape our practices, we must confront our cognitive dissonance. Denial of animal consciousness allows us to overlook the ethical implications of our treatment. It requires courage to acknowledge their sentience instead of ignoring it.
Marta Halina, Professor of Philosophy of Science at Cambridge University
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Source: www.newscientist.com
