Canada: Yearling prices consolidate, calf values soften

Compared to last week, western Canadian yearling prices were relatively unchanged; however, calves weighing 500 to 700 lbs. were $2-$4 lower. Featherlight bawlers under 500 lbs. were down $6-$8 from seven days earlier. Strong feedlot buying interest supported quality groups of yearlings. Feed barley prices were down $5-$10 per tonne from last week while the deferred live cattle futures continue to trade near contract highs. The Canadian dollar experienced minor strength but was still down about two U.S. cents from the May highs. All these factors contributed to the firm tone for the heavier weight categories. Small groups of two to four head were common last week and late-blooming single stragglers were discounted accordingly. Decent yearlings straight off grass, in groups of seven to eight head or more, traded at a $2-$4 premium to average values. Alberta packers were buying fed cattle at $273 on a dressed basis last week, down $2 from seven days earlier. Feeding margins remain ...