New USDA data shows a slight decline in total U.S. feedlot inventory, raising fresh concerns about beef supplies. USDA livestock analyst Michael McConnell says the semi-annual cattle report offers a more comprehensive snapshot than the monthly cattle-on-feed updates. “The cattle report, which is a survey that encompasses all feedlots, estimated there were about 13 million head of cattle in feedlots. That compares to 13.1 million head of cattle in 2023.” This broader look at the data reinforces tightening trends. “The cattle report, which we don’t get monthly, we only get it on a semi-annual basis, provides a little bit more of a comprehensive look at how many cattle there are in feedlots, ultimately destined for beef production.”
