Cows use tools to make designs

Cows take advantage of tree branches or fences to keep their fur smooth and healthy, proving that they are not peanut-minded, muscular, an Australian researcher revealed.

Cows use tree branches or fences to keep their fur smooth and healthy (Photo: bbc) Bob Kilgour, animal behavioral researcher, works at the New South Wales Basic Industries Commission, observed the combing behavior of many different beef cattle in a pasture for a few days.

He found that they spent about 3% of the day on grooming and posing, even if no parasites were on their backs. Mostly they use the tongue and hooves behind to brush the end of the body. In addition, the cows also use inanimate objects such as stems, branches, fences and stumps to rub the places where they cannot reach.

"They approached the broken branches with branches that extended to brush around the eyes, and made subtle movements to beautify the sensitive parts of the body," he said.

Kilgour said the deliberate choice of different types of objects showed that they knew how to use the tool. He also said that this is a bold suggestion because the classification of tools used depends on the ability to hold and manipulate objects.

"These animals can't pick things up and pull them away, but they know the decisions about what to do to shape themselves," he said. "So I think this will redefine our view of tool use."

Kilgour also compared the behavior of the beef cattle with the non-domesticated species, but relatives such as bison, water buffalo, banteng and African antelope. He found similar redirects. This proves to be an evolutionary figure, Kilgour said. For example, keeping a healthy coat can protect them from the invasion of parasites, bacteria and grass seeds.

T. An