British Friesian bull calves commanding a premium at auction

PRICES for rearing calves at markets have performed higher on average in 2020 compared to 2019, according to the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB).

In its latest figures, based on data up to November 21, 2020, the levy board has analysed the three highest auction throughputs of the dairy bull breeds: Holstein Friesian, Holstein and British Friesian.

But it says that when it comes to selling, the breed of the calf still has a big impact on the price achieved.

According to the AHDB’s data, Holstein Friesian bull rearing calf prices for 2020 are in line with the five-year average, at just under £37 a head.

Holstein prices have averaged £34 a head this year, less than a pound below the five-year average and below the Holstein-Friesian average.

Meanwhile, British Friesian prices have averaged £38 a head for 2020 so far, commanding a premium over the other two dairy breeds. However, these prices haven’t had as strong a recovery in 2020 as the two breeds above, with prices still more than £5 a head below the five-year average.

Katherine Jack, dairy analyst for the AHDB, explained: “It is worth noting that average auction prices only give a very broad overview of the value of calves. Prices will vary considerably over the course of a year and across the country.”

Ms Jack continued: “Additionally, specialised arrangements for selling on calves are relatively common. Both routes have shown that good prices can be achieved for highquality calves.”