Ankole heifer Queen Arusha (NANK23 001) has fetched R6,4 million at the Ntaba Nyoni & Friends auction near Bela-Bela in Limpopo, setting a new record for a female animal across cattle breeds.
The in-calf heifer was offered as Lot 20 and was purchased by an undisclosed buyer, according to a report by Farmer’s Weekly.
The auction took place at Phala Phala on Saturday.
The record price came amid strong demand for Ankole genetics, with breeding material also commanding significant prices during the sale.
Two sexed semen straws from Ankole bull Optimus Prime sold for R250,000 each. Optimus Prime, whose horns measure 68 inches, is described as Queen Arusha’s full brother. The genetics of Queen Arusha include Tshinakaho and Akira, with Kovu further back in her pedigree.
The two semen straws were reportedly the highest-priced semen lots at the auction. Overall, 37 semen straws changed hands for R1,235 million, while 19 embryos generated R1,445 million.
R22,5 million in auction turnover
The auction reportedly recorded total turnover of R22,5 million, with about 120 registrations and approximately 100 people attending in person.
Bull sales were also strong. Ten bulls were sold for a combined R2,75 million, giving an average of R275,000. The top-priced bull made R650,000 and was purchased by Gabriel Ngomane of Ngomane Stud Breeders.
Eight heifers sold at an average of R482,500, with the highest price reaching R900,000. Four pregnant cows averaged R432,500.
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