Dairy-beef calves are currently making €50/head more than in the same period last year, with early calf prices holding very strong.

Dairy-beef calf prices averaged between €240/head and €320/head in marts, with some exceptional continental-sired dairy calves making up to and over €500/head.

Traditional beef-sired calf prices reached €430/head.

Meanwhile, Friesian bull calves are up €4/head on last year, with British Friesian bull calves driving the increase, attracting bids of over €150/head.

Most sold for €55 to €75/head, with all major shippers actively bidding online over the past week

Holstein Friesian export-type bull calves are also out in higher numbers. Most sold for €55 to €75/head, with all major shippers actively bidding online over the past week.

Dairy calf registrations to date in 2021 are running 20,000 head higher than the same time last year. However, mart managers across the country are reporting strong demand, despite the increase in numbers.

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