6 Sep 2024

A neuroscientist's bond with his cow herd

From Nine To Noon, 10:05 am on 6 September 2024

Gregory Berns is a neuroscientist known for his work with dogs and researching the way they think.

But after embarking on a new life as an amateur farmer - it was cows that caught his attention.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, Greg and wife Kathleen bought an 85-acre farm.

But mowing the ever-increasing paddocks proves to be a major issue for Greg. And so he brings in cows to do the job for him.

It doesn't take long before Greg forms a special bond with his herd, in particular BB, his 'cowpuppy'.

Understanding BB and the others in the miniature Zebu herd is the catalyst behind Greg's new book Cowpuppy:

An Unexpected Friendship and a Scientist's Journey into the Secret World of Cows.

This is Greg's sixth book - he is more well known for his work with dogs - and he has also written about how human memories and the narratives from them continue to alter our identity. 

Gregory Berns' book Cowpuppy tells the story of his journey into the secret world of cows.

Photo: Photos supplied by Text Publishing

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