What Dairy-Beef Sire Breed Holds The Highest Average Calf Price?
The latest data from the Irish Cattle Breeding Federation (ICBF) has shown a downward trend in the average prices paid for dairy-beef calves across most categories. The average price for Angus bull calves under 21 days of age decreased from €267/head in the week ending March 9 to €261/head in the week ending March 16. Similarly, Friesian bull calves under 21 days of age saw a drop from €154/head to €146/head during the same period.
In 2025, Charolais-cross (CHX) bull calves have proven to be the most valuable, achieving an average price of €341/head to date. Charolais-sired heifer calves of similar specifications commanded an average price of €289/head. The second-highest average price is observed in Belgian Blue-sired bull calves (BBX) with an average value of €320/head. Correspondingly, BBX heifer calves have been valued at an average of €284/head.
In terms of pricing hierarchy, Limousin and Simmental breeds follow, with bull calves priced at €301 and €298/head, respectively. Limousin and Simmental heifer calves registered averages of €238 and €282/head, respectively. Friesian bulls recorded an average price of €127/head to date, while Angus and Hereford-sired bull calves realized averages of €255 and €282/head, respectively.
These figures highlight the fluctuations and market conditions within the dairy-beef sector, emphasizing the varied valuations by breed. Stay informed with Agriland for ongoing updates on calf pricing trends.
