UK Survey Results for Livestock

The results from the June Survey of Agriculture give a mixed picture on UK livestock breeding herds.  As the table below shows, both the Dairy and Beef herds showed an increase compared to June last year.  it will be interesting to see if the rise in the beef herd is any more than a ‘blip’ – the figures have shown a continuous downwards trend for at least a decade (notwithstanding a brief rise in 2011).  In 2005 the beef herd stood at 1,751,000 – 10% higher than today.  The dairy herd has expanded following the high milk prices seen in 2013 and early 2014.  it would be no surprise if current conditions in the dairy sector see increased cullings over the next year.

Perhaps surprisingly, the sheep breeding flock shows a slight fall.  Anecdotal evidence suggests that it is continuing to rise.  However, the June statistics for the sheep flock are not the best indicator, as the survey is undertaken largely before pre-tupping cullings and ewe-lamb replacements are decided.  The December Survey (published in March) tends to give a more accurate picture of the growth, or otherwise, of the sector. 

In the pig sector, the overall number of animals is down, whilst the breeding herd is up slightly.  Gilts intended for breeding have also increased (+3%) which suggests the industry is still positive about the future.  The full Survey results can be found at – https://www.gov.uk/government/statistical-data-sets/structure-of-the-agricultural-industry-in-england-and-the-uk-at-june