A study conducted by Dr. Brian G. Fairchild at the University of Georgia challenges the presumption that 23-hour continuous light is required during the first week of brooding broiler chicks. The investigation was carried out with funding from the USPOULTRY Foundation as Project 732.
The trial compared four-and six-hour dark periods during brooding. First week weight was significantly reduced although there was no difference in body weight compared to continuous lighting at the time of harvest denoting compensatory growth. It is generally accepted that during early brooding, a dark period ranging from 30 minutes to an hour should be allowed each day to prevent piling in the event of power failure. The results of the trial including data on feed conversion, mortality and the response of flocks with respect to corticosterone, melatonin levels and tibial breaking strength will be published in a peer-reviewed journal.
The initial conclusion from the evaluation of light duration during brooding was that there was no negative effect on performance at the time of harvest with the potential for improved skeletal development and lower locomotory defects and reduced cost of energy.