Although it’s only early days for calf sales in the region, with a larger volume expected in the Kerry area in the coming weeks, trade was lively, with the auctioneer having no bother getting bids and closing sales. Like other sales in the past week or two, there were plenty of export buyers sourcing shipping-type calves, while farmers were also actively sourcing all good-quality Friesians and coloured calves.

Holstein Friesian bull calves sold from €115 to €150 for stronger calves, with farmer buyers buying the dearer calves. Lighter calves under €110 were mainly bought by exporters. The number of Angus calves was low, but demand was strong. Plainer light Angus bulls and heifers sold from €200 to €240, with the majority of better-quality types selling from €250 to €300/head.

Whitehead bull calves two to three weeks old sold on average for around €320, with lighter whitehead calves selling down to €240 each.

Whitehead heifers sold at slightly lower prices, with a range between €150 and €250 per head, depending on quality.

In terms of top prices, a super whitehead bull calf about five to six weeks old made €465 and a young Belgian Blue bull calf made €360.