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Experiments with the Bio-mittent lighting system for laying hens.
M Midgley1, T R Morris, E A Butler
1Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Agricultural Development and Advisory Service, Northampton, England.
British Poultry Science
|June 1, 1988
Summary
Intermittent lighting in poultry farming can reduce food consumption by approximately 5% without negatively impacting egg production. This lighting strategy may also reduce stress in caged pullets.
Area of Science:
- Animal Science
- Poultry Husbandry
- Animal Nutrition
Background:
- Optimizing feed efficiency and reducing stress are key concerns in commercial egg production.
- Lighting programs significantly influence poultry behavior and physiology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effects of an intermittent lighting system on laying pullets.
- To assess the impact on food consumption, egg production, and mortality rates.
Main Methods:
- Two experiments applied intermittent lighting (15 min light/45 min dark cycles) to laying pullets aged 37-72 weeks.
- A control group received a standard step-up lighting program.
- Dietary protein was adjusted to ensure adequate amino acid intake.
Main Results:
- Intermittent lighting reduced food consumption by approximately 5% compared to the control.
- Rate of lay and egg weight remained comparable between groups with adjusted diets.
- Mortality was slightly, though not significantly, lower in the intermittent lighting group.
Conclusions:
- Intermittent lighting is a viable strategy for reducing feed intake in laying pullets.
- This lighting approach may offer benefits in terms of reduced stress and potentially lower mortality.
- Maintaining adequate dietary amino acid levels is crucial for optimal performance under intermittent lighting.