Cows usually spend time in rivers not swimming pools.
Image: Bulat Khamitov/Pexels
A family in Richard's Bay found themselves playing host to a rather unexpected guest – a cow, in their swimming pool after a recent storm.
The storm had wreaked havoc on the property, destroying the perimeter wall and inadvertently granting the bovine access to the cool waters of the pool.
A video capturing this curious incident has since gone viral on TikTok, surprising viewers around the globe. For some the cow looked distressed, but it was reported that the cow was quickly taken out the pool.
In the video, shared by the Zululand Observer, the cow can be observed keeping its head above water while paddling around the pool with surprising ease.
Unfazed by its unusual surroundings, the bovine seemed to be taking a swim, while two other cows were spotted nearby drinking from the pool, seemingly enjoying their newfound oasis. While two dogs can be heard in the background barking.
The footage prompted a flurry of reactions from netizens, many of whom couldn’t resist sharing their thoughts. User @wannitasmith whimsically remarked, “🫣 only in Zululand,” while @mangawunga labelled the cow a “boss” for confidently enjoying a swim in the pool. However, not all comments were light-hearted; one viewer expressed concern, stating, “I hope someone saved that poor cow!”
Interestingly, this phenomenon isn’t as outlandish as it might seem.
According to sources like Wonderopolis, cows are actually quite capable swimmers. Many who work with cattle attest that these animals can swim as competently, if not better than, humans. In fact, in some farming communities around the world, cows regularly swim across lakes as a part of their grazing routine. An annual event in Ireland sees herds of cattle making a 100-metre swim across a lake to access fresh pastures, demonstrating their natural swimming ability.
Fortunately, the cow was safely removed from the pool and returned to its herd with the help of its herder. This incident in Richard's Bay serves as a reminder of nature's quirks and the resilience of animals. While the family may have faced unexpected challenges from the storm, the sight of a cow splashing in their pool has certainly brought a smile to many faces.