Calves back in marketplace
Calves back in marketplace
STABILITY is returning to calf markets as producers switch back to rearing for the market, not for the calf processing scheme, report auctioneers.
Fewer extreme Holstein types are being put forward as producers wake up to the reality that they are worthless and turn to on-farm disposal, says Jon Pullin of Gloucester market. "And those that are worth rearing are now being fed milk and presented well to average £20; the best sorts are between £50-£70."
Roy Waller at Chelford adds: "Producers are preparing calves for sale instead of just relying on the scheme. Finishers have also done their homework and fleshy type Friesians are making up to £60 each. Last weeks entry saw one-third of the black and white entry average £28 a head.
"But there are still a great number trading well below a fiver a head," he adds.
Given the prospect of a further milk price cut next month of up to 0.8p/litre – and the indication that national milk figures put production well ahead of profile – more calf producers should be able to improve the presentation of calves by feeding low value milk to ease pressure on quota limits.
And while dairy producers pockets remain pinched, the removal of the processing scheme has helped finishers broaden out their buying, particularly for native breeds.
Hereford bull calves have slipped back with plainer types regularly changing hands for £35; well below the schemes earlier value of £48 a piece, says Mr Pullin. And those finishers who switched from buying bulls to heifers when the scheme started are now returning as prices realign.
Mondays trade from the main calf centres report a firm trade for all Continental breeds. *