March 23, 2020

Scotland's cattle herd further shrinks in 2019

Scotland's cattle population continued its downward trend in December 2019, decreasing 1.8% or by 30,000 head to 1.632 million, compared with the same month in 2018, according to the latest census from the Scottish government, AHDB (Agriculture & Horticulture Development Board) reports.

In December 2018 total population was 1.662 million, fewer than the previous December's 1.694 million.

The number of dairy cattle in December last year fell by nearly 6,000 head year-on-year, with nearly 2,000 fewer animals in the milking herd (over 2 years old with offspring).

Female beef cattle fell by over 11,000 head on the year. Declines were also seen in all age groups, with the largest fall being among suckler cows (-6,600 head). This suggests some contraction in Scottish suckler beef supply in the longer term, says Hannah Clarke, livestock analyst at the UK levy board.

Male and female cattle aged 1-2 years both fell by over 11,000 head, pointing to tighter beef supply in the short term. The decrease in the number of male calves suggests this trend may continue into the second half of the year, Clarke said.