Hog prices edge lower
The weather improved in the U.S. Midwest to allow more hog deliveries, but continuing cold weather on the U.S. east coast hurt pork demand.
Packers were able to lower bids a little now that the temporary weather-induced shortage of market hogs has ended. Iowa-southern Minnesota hogs delivered were US$49 per hundredweight March 6, down from $49.50-$50 Feb. 27.
U.S. hogs averaged $63.41 on a carcass basis March 6, down from $64.31 Feb. 27. The U.S. pork cutout dropped to $68.82 per cwt. March 6, down from $70.51 Feb. 27.
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The estimated U.S. weekly slaughter for the week to March 7 was 2.222 million, down from 2.255 million the previous week. Slaughter was 2.072 million last year at the same time.
Canadian hog prices rose with support from a falling loonie.
Bison strong
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 as high as C$4.60 with offers of $4.80. U.S. buyers are offering US$3.90.
Animals outside the desirable buyer specifications may be discounted.
In the live markets, Kramer Auction sold a group of 2013 breeding bulls Feb. 27 that averaged more than $10,500. The high selling bull sold for $20,500.
Lambs strong
Ontario Stockyards Inc. reported that 771 sheep and lambs and 46 goats traded March 2. All classes of lambs sold steady to stronger. All sheep traded actively at stronger prices.
Goats sold at a premium.
