HOUSING SYSTEMS BIOSECURITY HOUSING & BROODING EARLY MANAGEMENT LIGHTING NUTRITION HEALTH HATCHING EGG MANAGEMENT 33 33 LOHMANN › MANAGEMENT GUIDE EARLY LIGHTING PROGRAMME Upon arrival at the farm, day-old chicks exhibit varied behaviours; some rest following their journey from the hatchery, while others immediately seek out food and water. An intermittent lighting programme is well-suited to accommodate this irregular activity, as it promotes movement, harmonises flock behaviour, and encourages the search for feed and water resources. Additionally, such a programme facilitates comprehensive observation of the entire flock. Periods of darkness benefit chicks by enabling sleep, supporting the establishment of circadian rhythms, and contributing positively to immune system development, growth rates, digestion, general health, and a reduction in early first-week mortality. The standard schedule consists of four hours of light followed by two hours of darkness, repeated over a 24 hour window. However in some countries this isn't possible due to legislation. Nevertheless, the schedule can be adjusted to fit with ANY regulation, please speak to your LOHMANN advisor. An intermittent lighting schedule should only be used up to 7 or 10 days and then you can switch to your standard step-down lighting programme. Adherence to local regulations is imperative. DRINKING For the first 2 or 3 hours after housing, it can be beneficial to dip the beak of some chicks into the water and onto the nipples themselves. This can stimulate the motivation to drink. They will then soon find the feed after a drink. 2 h 2 h 2 h 2 h 4 h 4 h 4 h 4 h Darkness Light Intermittent lighting programme
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