With calf numbers passing peak, prices paid for Friesian bulls continue to be under pressure. Mart managers have said that the peak of numbers occurred last week, about two weeks earlier than last year.

The average price paid for a Friesian bull according to ICBF figures last week was €77/head, back €5/head on last week and back €16/head on the same week last year, when prices averaged €93/head. One common trend has been that farmer activity for Friesian bulls has weaned in recent weeks, with the majority of demand stemming from exporters.

In the main, exporters are said to be sourcing calves at prices of €60 to €80/head, with some prices of up to €100/head being paid.

The proportion of Angus and Hereford calves on offer is increasing and running well above the same time last year. The variation in prices paid for these is vast, with farmer activity for plain and light Angus calves very low. Any Angus and Hereford calves that appear as if they have a Jersey background are selling at Friesian bull calf prices, with buyers mainly sourcing calves that will attract the bonus payments at slaughter.