Effects of light and feeding space on leg abnormalities in broilers

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Poultry Science
• Avian Health

Background:

• Leg abnormalities are a significant welfare and economic concern in broiler chicken production.
• Management practices, including lighting and feeding space, are critical factors influencing broiler health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of intermittent illumination (IL) versus continuous illumination on leg abnormalities.
• To evaluate the effect of different feeding space allowances on the incidence and severity of leg defects in broiler chickens.
• To correlate bird activity levels with leg health under varying management conditions.

Main Methods:

• Three experiments were conducted with a total of 7200 male broiler chickens.
• Birds were subjected to either intermittent illumination (IL) or continuous illumination.
• Different feeding space allowances (2.94 cm/bird vs. 1.47 cm/bird) were provided.
• Incidence and severity of leg abnormalities were recorded, and bird activity was assessed.

Main Results:

• Broiler chickens under intermittent illumination (IL) exhibited significantly fewer and less severe leg abnormalities compared to those under continuous illumination.
• Birds provided with 2.94 cm of feeding space per bird showed a higher number of leg defects, but these were less severe than those with 1.47 cm of space.
• Increased bird activity was observed under IL, which was associated with stronger legs.

Conclusions:

• Intermittent illumination is an effective management strategy for reducing leg abnormalities in broiler chickens.
• Optimizing feeding space, while potentially increasing defect numbers, can lead to less severe leg issues.
• Enhanced bird activity, promoted by IL, plays a crucial role in improving leg strength and overall broiler welfare.