HOUSING SYSTEMS BIOSECURITY HOUSING & BROODING EARLY MANAGEMENT LIGHTING NUTRITION HEALTH HATCHING EGG MANAGEMENT 59 59 LOHMANN › MANAGEMENT GUIDE LIGHTING Lighting is a critical factor in poultry production, influencing bird behaviour and overall wellbeing, health, growth, bone formation, movement and foraging, circadian rhythms, sexual maturity, and egg production, as well as mate identification and reproduction. It's important to note that hens have a highly developed visual system, which differs significantly from human vision. GENERAL Lighting programmes implemented for breeders are designed to fulfil distinct objectives throughout both rearing and production phases. The lighting schedule regulates the growth and body weight development besides onset of lay and significantly influences laying performance and egg weight during the production period. BENEFITS OF LIGHTING Reducing Stress A suitable light climate can significantly reduce stress in parent stock, leading to better wellbeing and performance. Stress can negatively impact feed conversion, mortality rates, and egg production. Enhancing Egg Uniformity & Nesting Behaviour Effective lighting management not only influences laying behaviour by encouraging birds to use nests – thereby reducing floor eggs – but also supports improved egg uniformity and weight for optimal breeder performance. Encouraging Growth & Sexual Maturity Lighting promotes early development, increases feed and water intake, supports growth, and helps regulate sexual maturity in birds, leading to improved laying performance.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NTg2OTc2