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Compared to last week, Western Canadian feeder cattle markets traded $4-$8/cwt lower while some packages of heavier replacements dropped as much as $12/cwt, and three main factors led to weaker prices.

For the week ending March 30, Western Canadian feeder cattle markets traded $4 to $6 higher on average. Fleshier backgrounded yearlings were relatively unchanged. Buyers were fairly cautious on backgrounded heifers with some packages actually softer than seven days earlier. Larger strings of quality genetic, low flesh steers were up $6 to as much as $10 in some cases. Weaned, premium, calves were up a solid $5 to $6 on average.

Compared to last week, Western Canadian feeder cattle prices were quoted $3-$4/cwt on either side of unchanged.

Western Canadian prices for backgrounded replacements were $2 to $4 higher than last week. Lower flesh yearlings were valued $3 to $8 above week-ago levels. Prices for calves under 800 pounds were up $3 to $7 compared to seven days earlier with noted strength in feeders under 600 pounds.

Western Canadian feedlots are carrying sufficient numbers for the time being and feeding margins remain deep in red ink on unhedged cattle. Secondly, carcass weights are sharply above year-ago levels and Alberta finishing lots are backed up with market-ready supplies.

The major grazing regions of Western Canada have received over 200 per cent of normal precipitation over the past 30 days. Grassers were red hot. Demand has also increased for herd building heifers which has diminished supplies for finishing feedlots.