The average Friesian bull is making just over €80/head, down over €20/head on recent weeks. Mart managers in the south have said that exporters continue to be very active, but the sheer number of calves is having a significant effect on the average price paid.

The worst affected are the stronger three- to four-week-old calves, where prices have eased by more than €30/head in the past two weeks. Combined with the cost of feeding milk or milk replacer for the extra week or two, this is enticing more farmers to sell calves younger.

The trade for Angus and Hereford calves is quite strong, but the numbers on offer so far is low, but rising.

The average Angus heifer is selling for €150/head, while the average bull is making €180. Herefords are making €180 to €240/head.