Super Typhoon Sinlaku wipes out up to 60 percent of Saipan livestock

Super Typhoon Sinlaku has devastated livestock populations on Saipan, with preliminary assessments indicating a loss of 50-60% of cattle, poultry, swine, and goats. The Category 5 storm battered the US territory for up to 72 hours starting April 14, causing widespread destruction.

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So from what we have so far, we're looking at, for livestock, we're looking at probably 50-60% loss of livestock.

Charles Aiseam, director of the CNMI Division of Agriculture, reported that Saipan's cattle numbers dropped from 675 to 280, chickens from 7,148 to 4,554, swine from 1,143 to 515, and goats from 653 to about 300. He attributed the deaths to a lack of water, extreme heat stress, and damaged animal enclosures, noting the absence of shade and structural damage.

Dr. Shana Tannenbaum, a USDA APHIS veterinary medical officer, expressed heartbreak over the losses, recognizing the deep connection between the animals and their owners. Farmers are also grappling with the disposal of animal carcasses, hindered by blocked roads and limited transportation following the storm.

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It was really hot. There were no more shade and most of their infrastructure was damaged.

Some farmers have stated that Sinlaku's impact on livestock was more severe than Super Typhoon Yutu. While cattle may recover more quickly as grazing areas regenerate, swine and poultry farmers continue to face difficulties with feed supplies and ensuring balanced diets for their surviving animals.

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It really breaks my heart. For the animals, but also for people themselves. I know how much these animals mean to them and how much people rely on these animals.