In the past few weeks, it has been clear that grass growth is well behind desired levels. From speaking with mart managers over the past week, this setback in growth is having somewhat of an impact on the store cattle trade.
The common line being heard is that the 'plainer-type' store bullock and heifer were harder sold last week.
At Kilkenny Mart last Thursday (April 29), auctioneer George Candler stated that the 'plainer store' was back by €15-30/head compared to the previous week.
Although, looking at the prices for the continental bullocks or heifers in the 400-600kg range - and classified as 'quality' animals - the prices are general ranging from €2.25-2.50/kg. Some managers were pointing out that there were cases of these class of stores receiving a slight setback too.
Another factor to consider is that as the year is moving on, the big demand to fill supplies of 'grass store cattle' has been achieved for a number of clients, and this may have taken some of the edge off.
Looking at the cull cow trade, prices are still encouragingly strong for store cows and heavy cows. Good Friesian-bred cull cows are achieving from €1.30/kg, up to €1.70/kg - and stronger on occasions.
Continental cull cows are receiving prices starting at €1.70/kg - with plenty of females hitting the €2.00/kg mark and higher. Some of the top prices reported reached as high as €2.45/kg.
This week, Agriland took a look at recent sales held at Dowra and Raphoe Marts.
Dowra Mart played host to a sale of 840 cattle on Saturday (May 1).
Agriland spoke with manager Terry McGovern after Saturday's sale about the trade, to which he explained:
Speaking about the more forward type cattle, Terry added that the heavy forward bullocks also met a great trade and is still to be contested for by factory agents.
"The weaning trade was similar to the store cattle in that the plainer weanlings were proving to be that bit harder to sell at the same heights withnessed in previous weeks.
"The cow trade was the strongest of all on Saturday. We are seeing a lot more farmers turning to buying store cull cows for grazing and this is boosting both the demand and prices for these females."
There was a large entry of cattle at Donegal-based Raphoe Mart on Thursday (April 29).
Manager Ann Harkin reported: "The quality forward stock are still in great demand - with farmer trade driving prices with factory agents and feedlot buyers very keen.
"Medium weights of cattle were also a lively trade, with agents and farmers anxious to purchase for grazing and further feeding.
Concluding her report, Ann stated that bulls/bullocks sold from €2.00/kg to €2.80/kg, while heifers sold from €2.00/kg up to €2.90/kg.
Looking at the cull cow trade, Ann stated: "Fat cows sold from €650/head up to €1450/head on Thursday."