Cattle Inventory and Classification for January 31

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Overview
The cattle inventory report provides a comprehensive breakdown of cattle and calf populations across the United States, categorized by class. This data is essential for understanding trends in livestock production, market dynamics, and agricultural planning.

Key Highlights
• National Inventory. As of January 1, 2025, the total inventory of all cattle and calves stood at 86,662,200 head, representing a slight decline from 87,157,400 head in 2024.
• State-Level Data. While national figures offer a broad perspective, state-level inventories provide granular insights into regional contributions to the overall cattle population.
• Classifications. Cattle are classified into various categories, including beef cows, milk cows, heifers, steers, bulls, and calves under 500 pounds. Each category reflects specific segments of the cattle industry.

Notable Changes
Beef Cows. The inventory of beef cows that have calved decreased slightly, with numbers dropping from 28,013,000 head in 2024 to 27,863,500 head in 2025.
Milk Cows. Milk cow inventories also showed minor fluctuations, reflecting shifts in dairy production levels.

Implications for the Market
Understanding cattle inventory by class helps stakeholders anticipate supply and demand dynamics. For instance, a decrease in beef cow inventories may signal tighter supplies of feeder cattle, potentially driving up prices.
Conversely, stable or increasing milk cow numbers could indicate steady or growing demand for dairy products.
The cattle inventory report serves as a critical tool for farmers, ranchers, policymakers, and investors seeking to navigate the complexities of the livestock sector.

Calf Crop Estimates
The calf crop estimates provide critical insights into the reproductive performance of the cattle industry, reflecting the number of calves born during specific periods. These estimates are vital for understanding future supply dynamics and planning for market demands. According to the latest data, the total calf crop for 2023 was reported at 33,563,000 head, with a slight decrease to 33,529,500 head in 2024.
National totals are complemented by state-level estimates, offering a more granular view of regional contributions to the overall calf crop. For instance, states like Texas and Nebraska consistently rank among the top contributors, while smaller states may show more variability year over year. The report also breaks down calf crop figures into six-month periods, allowing for a more detailed analysis of seasonal trends.
Revisions to previous estimates have been made based on updated slaughter, import, and export data, ensuring greater accuracy. For example, the 2023 calf crop estimate was revised downward by 0.1 percent following a comprehensive review. Such adjustments help refine projections and improve the reliability of future forecasts.
Understanding calf crop trends is essential for stakeholders across the livestock sector, from ranchers planning breeding cycles to traders evaluating market conditions.

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