Increased cattle numbers offer encouragement for future supply

This comes in part due to an increase in calf registrations for the year to date, with the breakdown of beef versus dairy sires suggesting some future strengthening in the sector.

The most recent statistics outline that to the beginning of September, an increase of 11,527 calves were registered for the year to date, beef sired calves increased by 3.7%, with dairy sired calves remaining stable (0.2%).

The LMC Market Intelligence team note that the increase in beef calf registrations comes at a time when the latest on-farm figures indicate an increase in the overall cattle population. Cattle numbers at 1 October were up by 28,403 head, or 1.7% year on year, providing a positive indication for the overall supply base.

Providing an outlook for the sector the LMC Market Intelligence team suggests that higher overall cattle numbers alongside stronger numbers of beef-sired calves, point towards some recovery in NI cattle supplies.

LMC data on cattle for beef production which excludes dairy females is available on LMC’s website, the data on 1 October indicates a 3.1% increase in cattle for beef production in NI.

The overall increase in all cattle on farms in NI (28,403 head or 1.7%) is led by a 3.6% increase in beef cattle (35,374 head). While the number of dairy females on farms remains stable at 589,086 head, dairy males number 48,996, having fallen in the year by 3,214 head or –6.2% and likely the result of increased use of sexed semen within the dairy herd.

Beef breeds account for 61.4% of total cattle in NI, while dairy breeds comprise 38.6%. With little change this year in dairy cow numbers, growth in future cattle supplies will largely depend on the level of confidence calf producers have in the beef market outlook going forward.

Overall, the latest figures provide encouragement and are suggestive of gradual recovery. As further statistics become available LMC will monitor trends and provide updated analysis.