Comparison of dam and neonatal trace mineral levels in Nebraska sandhills beef cattle

Trace mineral deficiencies in copper, selenium, zinc, and manganese have been reported from neonates and perinatal calves in Western Nebraska, including the Gudmundsen Sandhills Laboratory (GSL) at Whitman, NE. Deficiencies or imbalances of trace minerals such as copper and selenium may play an independent or interacting role in the neonate's ability to produce immunity.