Everybody knows that….

….it’s clear that cows communicate with each other but there’s not been much research on it; at least as far we’re aware.  But here’s some confirmation from England.

http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-nottinghamshire-30484034

Thanks to Juliet Cleave in our Cornwall bureau for the link.  But we are sure communication takes place throughout the herd….not just between cows and their calves.  And we see signs that it’s not just “moo-ing”.  Information about food—and danger—flashes through the herd quickly and not always with a “moo”.

It’s fascinating to watch cows circle to protect their calves from a coyote.  Older heifers and even cows without calves are sent out to challenge the threat while the main body of the herd holds fast.  Instinct, certainly, but the response is too choreographed to be that alone.