The high heat index brought on by the El Niño phenomenon has caused the death of 11,556 farm animals in Negros Occidental, the Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO) reported.
The PVO, in a report to Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson, said as of April 26 the cost of the animals of different species that have died from the heat has reached P10,080,100 in 19 local government units and damage to pasture lands has hit P2,685,500 in seven LGUs.
This has affected 870 households in 95 barangays of Negros Occidental, the PVO reported.
Isabela town had the highest damage to farm animals at P5.9 million followed by Ilog at P1. 4 million, the report said.
Murcia had the highest damage to pasture lands at P1.1 million followed by Hinigaran at P1 million.
Dr. Placeda Lemana, Negros Occidental provincial veterinarian, said the very high heat index has caused the death of the farm animals.
The majority of the animals affected were free range chickens and fighting cocks, she said, adding that many died from dehydration.
Also among the fatalities were carabaos, cattle, goats, swine, sheep and poultry, she said.
Lemana said farmers have been advised to reduce the population of their farm animals to prevent crowding.
Misting of farm animals is also advised to cool them down, she said.
There is more meat being sold at markets now because in areas where there is a lack of water farmers have opted to butcher their animals before they die from the extreme heat, she said.*
