Although ground conditions in most areas around the west have become more difficult in the past week due to more rain, buyers remain active for all good quality types. The number of feeders buying stock have increased in the past week which is resulting in a steady trade for store cattle.

Prices at today’s sale were similar to last week. Average quality bullocks over 500kg sold mainly from €500 to €700 over the. Top quality types making as much as €800 along with the weight. Plainer types continue to be a harder sell and prices of €1.80/kg to €2.00/kg were paid for plain Angus steers. Lighter stores from 400kg to 500kg were met with steady demand and prices ranged mainly from €500 to €700 over the weight.

In the case of both heifers and steers, farmers and feeders dominated the demand. Today saw another busy heifer ring, with strong crowds of farmer buying and watching the trade. Forward heifers over 500kg sold mainly from €550 to €800 along with the weight. Heifers from 400kg to 500kg sold frequently from €500 to €750 over the weight.

Weanlings were a steady trade again today with plenty of farmers buying good quality types. The average 300kg to 400kg bull sold mainly for about €750 to €900/head. With top quality types breaking the €1000/head mark. Heifers weanlings were a good trade on the day also, however, plainer heifers continue to be a slower sell.

Steady trade at Headford

Today’s sale at Headford Mart saw another steady trade for all good quality cattle. Bullocks made from €350 to €775 over the weight. Weanling bulls made from €285 to €715 over weight while weanling heifers made from €180 to €525 over. Suckler Cows made from €510 to €1340. Cull Cows made from €500 to €1350. Cull Ewes made from €58 to €102. Lambs made from €60 to €129. Breeding Ewes made from €78 to €102. Ewe Hoggets made from €105 to €184.