There was an 18% increase in the number of fallen cattle on farms between January and April this year, which can be attributed to the harsh spring weather, figures from the Department of Agriculture show.

Anecdotal evidence from knackeries nationwide had pointed towards a surge in the figures as a result of harsh and prolonged spring conditions.

A total of 156,877 on-farm bovine deaths were reported in the spring period, according to information from Minister Michael Creed in response to a parliamentary question from Fianna Fáil deputy Eugene Murphy.

Fallen cattle numbers were consistently higher in each of the first four months of the year but peaked in March and April which accounted for 62% of on-farm deaths.

Previous reports showed that cows were the highest category of fallen animals for January and February this year, with 2,043 reported.

A full age and sex break down for each month won’t be available until later in the year according to the Department.

Knackeries reported that on-farm deaths included a high number of young stock.

A number of vets indicated that ideal conditions had been created for the rapid spread of diseases such as pneumonia, as poor ground conditions produced a protracted and at times cramped housing period on some farms.

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