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Last week’s high prices are holding firm in the marts with continued strong demand for all types of sheep. Store lambs in particular are meeting a strong trade.
With higher cattle prices, many beef farmers who traditionally bought store cattle for summer grazing are now opting for store lambs instead.
Many mart managers are commenting that the supply of store lambs is limited and this is also having a positive affect on prices.
Crossbred lambs from hill areas are making €1.90/kg to €2.00/kg, while Scotch-bred lambs are selling for €1.80/kg to €1.90/kg. Many of these lambs are being sold in marts in the west and transported to lowland farms in the east to be finished off grass and catch crops (see page 57 for Kenmare Mart report).
Lowland-bred store lambs are also meeting a firm trade and are making €2.25/kg to €2.40/kg. Lambs weighing 31kg to 35kg are selling for €70 to €84/head, while lambs weighing 36kg to 40kg are selling for €85 to €95/head. Ewe lambs suitable for breeding in the autumn are making premiums of €10/head on their wether counterparts.
Factory-fit lambs weighing 43kg to 46kg are selling for €100 to €114/head, or €57 to €68 over the weight. Heavier lambs weighing 48kg-plus with good flesh cover are selling for €118 to €125/head, with prices up to €130/head paid for top-quality lambs.
Cull ewes
There is strong activity around cull ewes, with all fleshed ewes making in excess of €105/head. Larger-framed ewes are moving at prices of €115 to €130/head. Lighter-framed ewes lacking flesh are selling from €50 to €85/head.
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