Feed shortage dominates market talk

Marts: Scarce supplies of animal feed on farms, coupled with poor grass growth, was the main talking point around mart ringsides yesterday, where prices varied from slightly improved on last week to an easier tone, particularly for the plain-type animals.

Mean soil temperature for the month is two degrees below average, resulting in grass growth running two to three weeks later than usual, draining feed supplies and resulting in exceptional seasonal demand for concentrates. Many farmers are either deferring buying-in until grass growth improves or reducing the number of cattle they are purchasing.

Marts at Bandon, Kilkenny and Blessington all reported more cattle on offer at yesterday’s sales. At Bandon a bigger entry was met with a good trade for bullocks in particular. Heavy bullocks ranged €220 to €340 over.