Is 24-hour light really good for raising chicks?
It is widely believed that 24-hour light maximizes the performance and health of chicks. But is 24-hour light really good for raising chicks?
Numerous studies have shown that chicks, like all living things, are born with a 24-hour body clock. This clock can be seen at work by observing the eating and drinking activity of chicks during the first few days of their lives. Even if 24-hour light is provided, the chicks will still drink and eat more during the day than at night.
What are the specific effects of 24-hour light on chicks?
1. Circadian Rhythm: Chicks show nearly identical circadian rhythms during the first few days of life, with significantly higher water and food intake during the day than at night. This pattern persists even with 24 hours of light.
2. The Need for Dark Periods: Studies have shown that poultry need to have at least four hours of continuous darkness to really benefit from the dark period. Without dark periods, chicks' circadian rhythms may become out of sync.
Alternative Solution
In order to promote feeding and growth of chicks, strategies can be used to gradually reduce the time of light:
Week 1: 24 hours light.
Week 2: 20 hours of light.
Week 3: 18 hours of light.
Week 4: 16 hours of light.
From week 5: Taper down to 8 hours of light per day
In addition, the light can be stopped from time to time for 1 hour at night to exercise the adaptability of the chicks to the dark and avoid the upset of the chickens due to power failure.
Using our Hot-selling LED Poultry Light Bulb and Smart Poultry Lighting Control System, you can easily control and adjust the lighting time, achieve intelligent management of lights, and better care for the growth of chicks.
Special Notice: The information and picture above are from the Internet, not original.
