Briefing Chat: The canny cow that can use tools, and how babies share their microbiomes
Jan 23, 2026•12 min
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Summary
This episode delves into two intriguing scientific discoveries. First, it explores how babies' microbiomes are significantly diversified through interactions with peers and surroundings in nursery settings, highlighting extensive microbial transfer. Second, the discussion introduces Veronica, a remarkable cow from Austria, who demonstrates sophisticated tool use by manipulating objects to scratch herself, challenging conventional understanding of animal intelligence.Episode description
In this episode:
Nature: Sending babies to nursery completely reshapes their microbiome
Science: No bull: This Austrian cow has learned to use tools
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