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Last week, just over 700 calf sales were recorded on the ICBF database. The largest proportion of these was Angus bulls and heifers, amounting to about 270 head, while just 122 Friesian bull calves were sold.
The average Friesian bull continues to sell from €90 to €130/head, with the majority of calves now on offer being strong three- to four-week-old bulls. The largest group of calves on offer are Angus, which are selling from €180 to €200/head for bulls and from €160 to €180 for heifers.
Calf quality continues to be the main factor affecting price. Hereford bulls are selling from €230 to €260/head, while heifers are making from €200 to €220. Where continental calves are on offer, prices are very strong and are ranging from €250 to €450/head.
Weak demand for light maiden heifers
At this stage of the year, the sales of dairy maiden heifers are mostly over, but some sales are continuing to take place.
Maiden heifers are being offered privately also, with some large bunches available in southern areas.
Strong heifers, which have been running with bulls since the start of the breeding season, are making from €750 to €850/head.
However, numerous heifers are being offered for sale which have not yet been mated as they are weighing light.
Remember that a heifer bred today will be calving 18 March.
As a result, demand for light heifers not yet served is poor and prices are ranging mainly from €500 to €600/head.
Late-calved cows and heifers are currently being offered for sale at €1,000 to €1,100/head.
Steady demand for quality but more plain cattle on offer at marts
Cattle prices: forward store up and numbers back
Quality light store prices holding firm at Ballinasloe Mart
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