SHARING OPTIONS: There was in the region of 1,400 calves on offer in Bandon this week, with prices tightening up a fraction. Solid but unspectacular would be the best way to describe the trade. Well over 80% of what was on offer this week was purchased in the €70 to €270 range. Throughout March there was wide variation on prices within the breed categories. The earlier January and February calves, especially beef cross ones, are much sought after by calf rearing specialists, creating extra competition for calves that suit their individual systems. Friesians The peak of Friesian bull calf numbers has well and truly passed, with noticeably fewer around the pens. Those available are, on average, older calves than earlier in the season. The price range for those were tighter than earlier in the spring, with €70 to €150 the going rate.