Farmers practising a traditional 18- to 20-month bull beef system or those with autumn-born bulls approaching finishing will now be starting to draft bulls in higher numbers. The importance of selecting bulls at the correct weight and fat cover is critical and can have a significant influence on prices commanded.

This is especially relevant to bulls under 16 months of age as failing to hit the required fat cover can result in bulls not being paid on the grid and being heavily penalised.

Earlier this year, Kepak procurement manager Jonathan Forbes gave an excellent demonstration on selecting bulls for slaughter at a Teagasc/Irish Farmers Journal BETTER farm walk held on Donie Ahern's in Limerick. In the video, Jonathan explains differences in drafting bulls and heifers/steers and gives advice on the areas to focus on.