In livestock sales, what typically leads to a higher price for bulls compared to steers?

The context for the pricing of bulls compared to steers in livestock sales revolves primarily around their roles in breeding and their overall market value. Bulls are considered more valuable than steers due to their significant role in reproduction and genetic improvement within herds, which directly impacts their market price.

While it's true that bulls are often larger and can have good meat quality, the definitive factor that typically leads to higher prices is indeed their breeding capabilities. Bulls are retained for breeding purposes, which makes them essential for any operation looking to improve herd genetics. The demand for quality breeding stock increases their market value, often leading to higher sales prices compared to steers, which are primarily raised for meat and do not offer the same breeding potential.

Overall, the general tendency for bulls to sell for a higher price than steers is thus rooted in their importance in livestock production beyond just meat yield, making them a key asset in the livestock market.