The knock-on effects of the delayed spring and fodder shortages have well and truly worked their way down to the pedigree sector. Most cattle have had limited access to fields, with the majority still housed. This has put many farmers off buying a bull until he is needed and can be turned out to the fields.

Most sales, with the exception of the Friesian premier two weeks ago, have reported less than satisfactory results over the past few months with regard to clearances and average.

Private bull sales seem to be relatively stable. However, many breeders are seeing purchased bulls staying on farm for a number of weeks post-purchase. This again follows the trend of buyers not wanting the bull on their own farm until green grass is in sight.

Last year also witnessed a relatively slow spring, although not to the extent of this year. This saw a number of the later sales seeing extremely strong trade for the stock on show. Societies remain confident this will be a similar story in 2018 and advise farmers to identify these later sales now.

The more time a bull is allowed to acclimatise to its new surroundings before going to work, the higher chance of having an issue-free breeding season.

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Angus and Friesian top at Bandon Mart