Most sales at the moment involve a drop-and-go format for sellers with buyers allowed in to view stock.

The manner in which calves are valued and how deals are agreed varies from mart to mart. Two-thirds of calves traded in MartBids marts last week were males.

By breed, over 50% of male calves traded were Friesian or Friesian-cross, with Angus and Hereford-cross calves accounting for another 15% and 20% respectively. Friesian calves traded a little better, with older calves making €50-€80. Poorer-quality younger Friesians are in less demand, with prices around €30-€50. Aberdeen Angus males sold for €80-€140 depending on age and quality. Hereford calves fared better, ranging from €100 to €240, again depending on quality. Continental calves are in demand, with €300-€350 being paid for top-quality Charolais and Belgian Blue calves.

ADVERTISEMENT

Heifer calves were up a little on the previous week, with top-end Angus heifer calves selling between €90-€150. Good Hereford x calves are trading between €100 and €180, while continentals are from €200 up.