Cork Marts Dungarvan hosted its weekly calf sale last Thursday, with numbers really starting to rise.

As we edge closer to peak calf sale time, the 400 calves forward last week will be surpassed this week with 600 on offer.

Of the 400 on offer last Thursday, the sale recorded a near-100% clearance rate.

The majority were Friesian calves, with the smaller number of beef-sired calves continuing to fetch top-end prices.

The majority of beef-sired calves started around the €200 mark, but well-made calves closer to four weeks of age again dominated prices.

Hereford and Angus heifer calves saw a stronger bite than the bulls, but with smaller numbers forward. Well-made continental calves exceeded the €300 mark.

Friesians feel the brunt

No shippers leaving the country is certainly playing its part on the Friesian bull trade.

Lighter Friesians in particular are feeling the brunt of this, with prices under pressure.

However, those calves carrying a bit more British Friesian in the breeding were seen making as high as €115.

Prices generally started at the €20/head mark, with the average coming in around the €55 mark.

A number of fed older calves were also offered for sale and those sold for around the €150 mark.

Manager comment

Speaking after the sale, mart manager Ger Flynn said: “We’re expecting a very big sale this week. There seems to be a shortened window and the calves seem to be piling up.

"With nothing leaving the country, prices are starting to tighten for the Friesian calf.

“Beef calves are scarce and making big, big money. We are seeing fierce demand up the country for these.

"Prices for dairy beef calves are holding well with early calf prices, although that might change too when we hit the peak.”

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