Calf prices are continuing to soften as a glut of calves ensures a solid supply to both shippers and farmer buyers.

While prices in excess of €600 are still available for beef-cross calves, those higher figures are not as plentiful as they were in February, and they are largely confined to heavier calves close to or over 70kg.

The general run of calves – both dairy- and beef-crosses – are selling in the region of €200 to €450 and in some instances, lighter continental-cross calves are making similar money to good Friesian bulls.

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Exporters have really made their presence felt in recent weeks, with improved sailing conditions and solid demand from buyers on the continent.

They are not having it all their own way, with farmers still eager for stronger calves.

Following the calf sale at GVM’s mart in Dromcollogher, Co Limerick, manager Shane Egan said: “We had five exporters all anxious for calves along with strong farmer demand. Exporters didn’t stand a chance for some of the better Friesians. They appear to be looking for bulls predominantly, of any breed at the moment.”

As shippers have picked up the pace, Denis O’Donoghue, Cork Marts auctioneer, noted that the spread of customers had tightened up in recent weeks.

Following a sale of almost 2,500 calves in Bandon Mart on Monday, he said: “By 7pm most shippers had close to or over 200 calves bought [each] at that stage. They’re buying whatever suits their orders, with some specialising in Friesians and others looking for a stronger beef calf.”