There was a 98% clearance in Skibbereen today, with bullocks and cows especially sought after. With 290 weanlings on offer, trade was similar to recent weeks. March 2016-born animals seemed to dominate numbers as farmers are progressing in weaning spring-calving herds. Bulls seemed to be bigger on average than recent sales and the majority sold from €2.15/kg to €2.50/kg, with some achieving a bit more per kilo than average.

Sample prices: weanling bulls/bullocks

Weanling heifers were more of a mixed bag in terms of quality and prices followed this trend. Most continentals sold for between €2.10/kg and €2.40/kg, with a few choice lots going over this range. Heifers with temperament issues struggled to make over €2/kg.

Weanling heifers sample prices

There was 88 bullocks and they met a lively trade in comparison with last week. Bullocks sold for up to €620 with their weight. Those born in the second half of 2015 were in demand, with Angus bullocks going for €1.85/kg and above. Young continental bullocks were also a good sell.

Bullock sample prices

Heifers made from €280 to €530 over the €/kg. There were 30 heifers on offer, with trade remaining tough. Spring 2015-born heifers from the dairy herd under 400kg are proving a very difficult trade of late.

Sample heifer prices

And finally, there were 80 cows on offer, with a high proportion of these well-fleshed and in good condition. They met a strong demand from buyers. Prices ranged from €180 under to €490 over the €/kg.

Sample cow prices