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Last Monday’s calf sale at Carnaross Mart saw an entry of about 180 head on offer. While numbers are currently low, they are expected to rise week on week for the next few months until peek calf sales are seen in March/April.
Demand was quite firm on the day, with plenty of farmers active for all types of calves. Friesian bull suck calves sold from €80 to €150, with prices running generally from €100 for average-quality types to €130/head for better-quality bulls. A few stronger runner Friesian bulls made from €190 to €225.
There was good demand for Angus calves also and prices ranged mainly from €210 to €250/head, with some better-quality Angus calves making up to €340/head.
Continentals sold mainly from €330 for a Belgian Blue to €470 for a top-quality strong Charolais heifer. Other good continental calves sold mainly from €350 to €370/head.
The main supply of runner calves on offer on the day were continentals. Farmer buyers were quite active for these also and paid from €490 to €665 for good-quality strong Charolais. Some lighter Charolais heifer runners made from €355/head upwards.
Commission rates for calves are from €4 to the seller and €8 to the buyer, but will change depending on sale price.
Slight improvement in mart prices in recent days
Farmers and feeders active in Baltinglass
Strong trade for calves as numbers increase slowly
Farmers driving calf prices but numbers small
Strong demand for calves at Kilrea Mart
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