Mart prices: Friesian bull calves average €88 in Kilkenny

Just shy of 200 calves were traded in Kilkenny Mart on Tuesday as the mart continues to implement a revised trading format in line with COVID-19 restrictions. Given the nature of the restrictions, it is a strong number to be moving in one day.

Tuesday’s offering consisted of 120 male calves and 75 female calves and these achieved 100% clearance. By breed, one-third of the bull calves were Friesians, while Angus-crosses and Hereford-crosses accounted for another 25% and 32%, respectively.

Prices

Friesian bull calves on the day averaged €88/head. First-rate, stronger types ranged between €100/head and €140/head, while second-rate, less advanced types hit between €30/head and €60/head mainly.

Angus-cross bull calves averaged €161/head, with an overall range of €110-€258/head, but perhaps a more typical range of €130-€200/head depending on strength and quality.

Hereford-cross bulls saw a fine trade and averaged €223/head. Again, the overall range was €127-€271/head, but a typical range was more like €180-€260/head.

Continental bull calves were not plentiful and a standout offering of two Charolais-cross bull calves were sold for €287 each.

Heifer calves

The offering of heifer calves was completely dominated by Angus and Hereford crosses. Angus-cross females averaged €146/head, with the general price range settling at €100-180/head. Calf quality was the deciding factor here, rather than age.

Hereford-cross heifers averaged €162/head, with a rather small variance evident. Prices of €130-195/head were secured by all but a handful.

Two Charolais-cross heifers made €255 and €153 respectively, while a pair of Limousin-cross heifer born at the end of March sold for €90/head.