Last week, ICBF data shows that the average Friesian bull calf sold in the marts increased to €143/head. However, the low number of Friesian calf sales recorded is exacerbating the average price. The majority of average-quality calves continue to sell from €110 to €120/head. With top-quality types making up to €160/head. Angus calves are making from €190 to €200/head. Hereford calves are selling from €210 to €250/head for average-quality types, similar to that paid for March calves last April. Continental calves continue to be a strong trade where they are on offer. However, numbers available remain low.

Dairy heifer trade slow

At this stage of the year, the number of dairy heifers on offer remain very low.

In some circumstances, light maiden heifers which have not been bred are on offer, but demand for these are very low. Those which have been running with a bull from May onwards are selling from €800 to €900/head, with very high-EBI and well-bred types making up to €1,000.

In the past few weeks, there have been some farm-to-farm sales of in-calf autumn-calving heifers. Prices reported for good-quality well-grown types range mainly from €1,000 to €1,200. There is limited supply of reared Friesian heifer calves on offer and prices range from €350 to €450, with lower prices being sought for those bred from stock bulls.

Ringside comment: Strong prices for heavier cattle

Average calf prices edge up slightly due to low supply

The calf trade has continued to be strong, despite the fact that it is getting late in the year. Friesian bull calf prices have edged forward once again.