Calf sales have become a little quieter in the past week. ICBF data shows that Friesian bull numbers are dropping rapidly and prices are increasing.

The majority of Friesian bulls on offer are strong three- to four-week-old types and these are selling mainly from €110 to €140/head. Exporters and farmers are still very active for Angus calves, with farmer demand for better-quality types, while exporters are sourcing average-quality to better-quality types. Plain Angus calves are a variable trade. The average Angus bull sold for €168 last week, while the average heifer made €120. Hereford bulls sold from €170 to €240 for those under a month, while heifers sold mainly from €140 to €170 per head. Demand for continental calves remains very strong, with beef and suckler farmers the main source of demand.