Cows Have Best Friends And Get Stressed When Seperated!

When you think of cows, what comes to mind? Perhaps a peaceful field of grazing animals, lazily chewing grass under the sun. But here’s something you might not have known. Cows have best friends and they get stressed when they are separated. It may sound surprising, but cows are far more emotionally and socially complex than most people realize. According to research from Northampton University, cows form strong bonds with certain herd mates. Let’s explore to the details of this study and what they found out.

The Science Behind Bovine Friendships

Studies from Northampton University reveal a surprising fact: cows are capable of forming deep friendships. Within a herd, cows often choose specific companions. When separated, their stress levels rise. This stress is observable through increased heart rates and signs of agitation, akin to how we might feel when missing a close friend.

What’s more, cows recognize and remember their herd mates, even after long periods apart. Much like humans or other intelligent animals, their social memory is remarkable. For example, a cow can identify the face of a long-lost friend and respond positively upon reuniting.

D.H. Lawrence captured this complexity in his writings about Susan, a black cow he milked daily from 1924-1925. Reflecting on her “cow inertia” and “cow peace,” he marveled at her mysterious inner world. Yet he also described her mischief, like deliberately swinging her tail into his face during milking. These observations hint at the nuanced personalities cows possess.

The Emotional Lives of Cows: Joy, Grief, and Curiosity

Cows aren’t just social—they’re emotional. They exhibit joy during playful activities, such as rolling in the dirt or curiously exploring their surroundings. A Redditor once described the cows near their home as playful and curious, often gathering around fences to interact with humans. Their sense of wonder made these moments unforgettable.

On the flip side, cows also mourn. When a herd mate dies, cows may stand near the body or appear visibly distressed. This behavior highlights their capacity for grief, showing that their emotional depth goes beyond basic survival instincts.

Animal scientist Temple Grandin observed that cows are “curiously afraid.” They are drawn to new objects or people but approach cautiously, often stretching their necks and tongues to investigate without getting too close. This mix of bravery and fear adds another layer to their intriguing personalities.

Like humans, cows live within social structures that influence their behavior. Herds operate on a pecking order, with dominant cows asserting control over submissive ones. These dynamics are evident during activities like feeding or entering the milking parlor.

Farmers often notice these hierarchies and even give cows nicknames based on their personalities. For instance, “Devilish Delilah” might bulldoze fences, while “Crafty Caroline” leads trouble-making missions. Submissive cows, on the other hand, often avoid the dominant ones, preferring gentler companions.

Heartwarming Stories of Bovine Bonds

Stories of cows forming bonds with humans are equally touching. One Redditor shared how the cows near their home would come to play in a dirt pit, showcasing their sense of fun and curiosity. Another story tells of farmers who saved calves with front-leg deformities, raising them as pets instead of opting for euthanasia. These calves became family members, eagerly greeting visitors and nuzzling against them like affectionate pets.

These examples remind us that cows aren’t just livestock—they’re sentient beings capable of connection and kindness.

Conclusion

Cows have best friends, mourn their losses, and display complex social behaviors. If they can form deep relationships and experience emotions, what does that say about how we view animals in general? Perhaps it’s time to reconsider our perceptions of the animal kingdom. Empathy, connection, and relationships aren’t exclusive to humans. By treating animals with kindness and respect, we can acknowledge the richness of their lives and create a more compassionate world.