The number of cattle on Irish livestock farms on 1 January 2025 fell by 236,024 head - or 3.7% - compared with 1 January 2024.

An analysis of the latest animal identification and movement figures shows over 160,000 fewer dairy-bred animals on farms and 75,986 fewer beef-sired animals.

The significant reduction in dairy-bred animals is being driven by 72,737 fewer dairy-bred males on farms (321,338 head), while the number of dairy heifers was 54,122 head lower (793,541) and the number dairy cows was 33,179 head lower (1,465,696).

The reduction in dairy cows and replacement heifers reflects the recent lower optimism in many dairy herds, partly driven by uncertainty about the future of the nitrates derogation and farm policy, with labour availability also a contributing factor.

The lower number of dairy males is a consequence of high levels of calf exports in 2024 and greater use of beef genetics, aided by sexed semen.

Beef numbers

The recent worrying downward trend in suckler cow numbers is apparent in the number of suckler cows on farms falling by 50,730 head year on year and recorded at 745,110 head.

The other 25,000 head reduction is seen in beef males from six to 18 months of age. This is again influenced by high live exports in 2024 and the ongoing reduction in suckler birth registrations.