It is not entirely clear why (cannibalization) was necessary, as Col. Saul Tigh explicitly states that Galactica has five raptors in good condition in "The Farm".
This phrase was removed. It is likely that the deck crew is less efficient without the presence of Galen Tyrol, until his rescue in "Fragged." The episode, "The Farm," occurs some time later after Tyrol returns to the Fleet. --Spencerian 11:51, 12 October 2006 (CDT)