Hogs rally
Hogs prices were up, as traders reported tight supplies in the Midwest forced some packers to raise cash bids.
Consumer demand remains a concern as the U.S. Department of Agriculture reported record high March pork supplies last week and the sector faces increased competition from low priced poultry products as those inventories grow due to restrictions on U.S. exports because of avian influenza.
Iowa-southern Minnesota hogs delivered were US$48.50-$49 per hundredweight April 24, up from $47.50-$48 April 17.
U.S. hogs averaged $63.96 on a carcass basis April 24, up from $61.71 April 17.
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The U.S. pork cutout rose to $69.94 per cwt. April 24, up from $67.99 April 17.
The estimated U.S. weekly slaughter for the week to April 25 was 2.184 million, down from 2.243 million the previous week.
Slaughter was 1.991 million last year at the same time.
Bison steady
The Canadian Bison Association said Grade A bulls in the desirable weight range sold at prices up to C$5 per pound hot hanging weight. U.S. buyers are offering US$4.10-$4.15 with returns dependent on exchange rates, quality and export costs.
Grade A heifers sold up to C$4.80. U.S. buyers were offering US$3.90.
Animals outside the desirable buyer specifications may be discounted.
Lambs stronger
Ontario Stockyards Inc. reported that 781 sheep and lambs and 29 goats traded April 20.
All classes of lambs and goats sold on a good demand at stronger prices. All good sheep sold steady with over-fed and thin types under pressure. There is a strong demand for heavy well-fed lambs.
