Is This the Most Intelligent Farm Animal in History?
be struck by (something): to find something very interesting, surprising, or impressive when you first notice or think about it
Cows have joined chimpanzees, crows, and humans in the rare group of animals that can use tools. One cow named Veronika lives with an organic farmer, Witgar Wiegele, in Austria. More than ten years ago, he noticed that she sometimes used sticks to scratch herself. Later, she began using a deck brush.
Veronika has been studied for her clear ability to use tools. Researchers observed her behavior over many trials.. She holds the brush with her mouth and controls it using her tongue and teeth. She chooses different ends of the brush for different parts of her body. She uses the rough bristles on thick skin and the smooth handle on sensitive areas. She also presses harder or more gently depending on the spot.
Scientist Jill Pruetz commented on the importance of the study’s findings. She said, “What strikes me about Veronika’s tool use is the precision with which she can manipulate the tool as well as switch its ends to target specific areas.”
One reason Veronika is so unique may be her living conditions. Her owner gave her access to objects she could explore and use. Veronika’s story suggests that when cows are given the right stimulation, they may have more potential than people expect.
Sample sentences
He was struck by how kind the strangers were when he lost his wallet in the city.
When I first stepped off the plane in the desert, I was struck by the intense heat. It felt like walking into a warm oven.
As I looked at the old family photo, I was struck by how much my son looks like my grandfather. They have the exact same eyes.
Origin
This expression comes from the idea of being hit suddenly by a physical object. Just as a physical hit grabs your attention immediately, a powerful idea or an amazing sight “hits” your mind. It makes you stop and focus because you are so surprised or impressed.
You can use this expression in two ways. You can say you are struck by something, or you can say that something strikes you. In our story, the scientist says, “What strikes me…” Even though the grammar is slightly different, the meaning of a powerful surprise is exactly the same.
Read More:
A tool-using cow is challenging what we know about farm animal intelligence
