Average calf prices have increased significantly on the prices paid this time last year but have declined in several categories since last week.

According to the calf price data statistics published every week by the Irish Cattle Breeding Federation (ICBF), the average price paid for Angus bull calves under three weeks-of-age fell by €35 last week.

In the week ending Sunday, February 15, Angus bull calves under three weeks-of-age averaged €430/head, down from €465 in the previous week.

According to the ICBF data, the average price paid for Belgian Blue bull calves under three weeks-of-age was €515/head last week - down from €608/head in the previous week.

Friesian bull calves under three weeks-of-age averaged €244/head last week, down €20 from €264/head in the previous week.

Limousin bull calves averaged €452/head, down from €587/head in the previous week.

Calf trade at the marts

Despite the slight easing in calf prices last week, impressive 'headline prices' continue to be paid.

In Enniscorthy Mart this week, €1,100 was paid for a strong four weeks-of-age Charolais bull calf of a Friesian cow.

In Kanturk Mart, Co. Cork, on Tuesday, February 17, the calf trade was described as "exceptional" with a strong demand evident throughout the sale.

Up to €720 was paid in the sale for a 95kg Hereford calf. A pair of 65kg Angus calves in the sale made €625/head. Another three Angus calves weighing 60kg sold for €550/head and two lighter 57kg Angus calves sold for €400/head.