Getting enough high quality colostrum into a new born calf is the number one priority for the dairy farmer seeking to minimize calf death loss, improve calf health and positively affect future milk production.  Colostrum is the first “milk” produced after calving and contains maternal antibodies, called immunoglobulins, often referred to as IgG’s.  In addition, colostrum has a high content of protein, energy and vitamins.  Calves are born with an immature or non-active immune system because antibodies are not transferred across the placenta in cattle pregnancies.  At and immediately after