December 26, 2023
UK milking herd sees marginal increase, youngstock numbers decline
In October 2023, the United Kingdom's milking herd experienced a marginal increase, reaching 1.66 million head, reflecting a modest 0.1% uptick compared to the same month in the previous year, the UK Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board reported.
In contrast, youngstock, representing animals under two years of age, witnessed a decline of 24,000 head (2.5%) year on year, settling at 926,000 head.
The marginal rise in the overall milking herd was primarily propelled by an upswing in the number of cattle aged 2-4 years. This specific category saw an increase of 30,000 head (4.0%), totalling 788,000 head. This surge marked the entry of younger cattle into the milking herd for the fifth consecutive quarter, a consequence of the substantial spike in dairy births observed in 2021. Additionally, a seasonal element may contribute to this increase, with cattle from autumn calving herds joining the milking herd in October.
Conversely, all other age categories experienced year-on-year declines in cattle numbers. Youngstock witnessed a reduction of 24,000 head (2.5%), possibly indicative of low farmer confidence amid challenging market conditions, leading to a production pullback. The most significant proportional decline was noted in the 6-8 years category, down by 6.3% (16,000 head).
The milking herd is undergoing a consistent decline in average age, dropping to 4.58 years from 4.65 years the previous year. This trend signifies the culling of older, less productive cattle in favour of new cattle, as farmers strive for efficiency gains, particularly in the face of elevated input costs and diminished milk prices.
- UK Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board
