Kansas Officials Estimate Around 2,000 Cattle Have Died From The Heat
07/21/2010 11:19AM
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The Kansas Department of Health and Environment estimates about 2,000 cattle have died from a lethal mix of extreme heat, high humidity and little to no wind.
Ken Powell with the KDHE told broadcaster KSN that it's more cattle deaths than he's seen in several years.
The Kansas City Star reported that ranchers and feeding operations lose about $1,300 for each head of cattle that dies. Combined, the losses are expected to total more than $1 million.
The deaths have mainly occurred at feeding operations among heavier cattle that are ready to be slaughtered.
Pasture cattle with ready access to shade and water have fared better in the heat.
Feedlot operators say they have been doing everything they can to keep the animals comfortable, providing more water and wheat straw for bedding.
Copyright 2010 The Associated Press.