In the past week, mart managers have commented that the numbers of calves on offer has increased rapidly, with many saying that numbers have almost doubled. The striking feature at the ringsides has been that farm buyers are dominating, with very little exporter activity thus far.

In terms of demand, farmers are focusing on sourcing calves that are strong, mostly three- to four-week-old types, and they are paying a premium for these. Where young Friesian bull calves around two weeks of age are on offer, they are being met with weak demand and the lower end of the prices of €50 to €80/head in some parts. However, where good-quality three- to four-week-old Friesian bulls are on offer, prices of €100 to €150 are still being offered, with farmer buyers still quite active.

There have been reports of Jersey bull calves being sold at €10 to €15/head. However, numbers in marts are very small. Angus and Herford numbers remain low, but, where they are on offer, prices are relatively firm.

Angus bulls and heifers are selling from €200 to €280 with prices of €250 and higher being offered for stronger types. Herefords are selling mainly from €250 to €320/head, again with lighter and younger calves making the lower prices.

Where farmers are buying, they are sourcing Angus and Hereford calves with good shape and conformation. Some farmers have commented that when sourcing Angus calves especially, they are avoiding small-framed calves with very light bone so as to avoid sourcing calves with Jersey genetics in the background.

Read more

Buoyant trade continues as special sales get under way

Strong demand for fleshed and short-keep cattle creates a buzz at Tullow

Strong store and calf trade at Bandon Mart

Strong demand for calved and early calving dairy heifers at Kanturk mart

Strong store trade at Clogher Mart

A guide to special and upcoming sales in the marts in the coming weeks