In reply to MG:
it can be. many militant groups target the breeding stock - its known as genocide. the balkans, parts of africa and the caucuses have well known examples. it often goes hand in hand with other crimes against humanity.
also, its a media hook. 'genocide' is a big word to throw around, and usually needs UN confirmation (another story).
its not mystery that its usually men who carry out these acts, but not always. its also murkied by being a quasi-term for non-combatants, but that too is obscured in places that use child soldiers.
and, in many cultures with conflicts, women and children are secluded. to kill them means the perpetrators have breached defences, implying the women/kids were then unprotected and therefore killed enmasse or executed.
your OP has two distinct halves to it: the reporting element is one thing, the value of lives is another.