Figure 1: Comparison of two poultry compartments equipped with CORAX DDS lighting systems, illustrating the effect of light spectrum on environmental appearance. The left compartment is illuminated with warm white light, and the right compartment is illuminated with cold white light.
Light does more than help chickens to see. At HATO we learned that different aspects of lighting can influence the hen’s behaviour, health, well-being, and eventually production in different direct or indirect ways. That's what shapes our work in the OMELETTE project.
Our contribution focuses on dynamic light recipes designed to encourage positive behaviour. In practice, we focus on two variables:
- correlated colour temperature (CCT) - the warm or cool white tint of the light
- and intensity (lux and Gallilux). However, there are many more key aspects of light that affect hens and cannot be overlooked. Flicker, spectrum, photoperiod each plays a role and are considered.
In the OMELETTE project, we are studying our dynamic light recipes. We are following up several flocks at the Experimental Poultry Centre (EPC). Currently, data from the first flock are being analysed, and the second flock is being monitored to study their response to a dynamic lighting recipe.
Additionally, to expand the practical impact of the dynamic light scheme, the scheme is currently being rolled out on pilot farms. Moving from semi-commercial settings to commercial farms highlights the practical implications of our dynamic light recipe.
We will share what we find as the project moves forward.