Here we look at the ICBF’s data with regard calf registrations by sire. We clearly identify the top bulls across each breed both at pedigree and commercial level.

Looking at the top bulls across the suckler and dairy herds gives a great reflection of what bulls are doing the business at commercial level.

While this might mean bulls by these sires are in demand now, breeders should also be aware that this may not last.

Cows inseminated this spring won’t have their progeny sold until 2021.

If there are large numbers of progeny by these popular bulls at that stage, some buyers may be looking for something different or even trying to avoid inbreeding if daughters were retained.

This is why some pedigree breeders may be looking to avoid these bulls for the coming season.

Pedigree breeders always stand to the fore when it comes to trying new genetics, and those which find the next new star are rewarded for that with increased sale prices for the first progeny sold.