Light color and the commercial broiler: effect on behavior, fear, and stress

Light wavelength and its impact on broiler health

“…Additionally, exercise and increases in activity can lead to the prevention of leg disorders through the promotion of bone development ( Reiter and Bessei, 1996 ; Bradshaw et al, 2002 ). Data from previous work in our research group revealed that light color affected behavioral expression, where broilers raised under blue light spent more time resting and less time performing active behaviors, such as walking ( Remonato Franco et al, 2022a ). With the observed decrease in broiler activity ( Remonato Franco et al, 2022a ) and melatonin concentration during one measured period in the scotophase, impacts on lameness might be expected in broilers raised under blue light.…”

“…Data from previous work in our research group revealed that light color affected behavioral expression, where broilers raised under blue light spent more time resting and less time performing active behaviors, such as walking ( Remonato Franco et al, 2022a ). With the observed decrease in broiler activity ( Remonato Franco et al, 2022a ) and melatonin concentration during one measured period in the scotophase, impacts on lameness might be expected in broilers raised under blue light. This was not the case however, which agrees with previous research in broilers raised under different light colors ( Senaratna et al, 2011 ).…”

LED Light Applied to the Feeder: Impact on Growth Performances of Chickens under Productive Conditions

“…Satisfactory results using white LED light on chicks were reported [8], whereas another study reported no effect on body weight [28]. In more recent research, the different white LED light colors increased activity when compared to blue or green light, showing that light color has an impact on the chick's behavior [29].…”

The inflammatory immunity and gut microbiota are associated with fear response differences in laying hens

“…Tonic immobility ( TI ) is an innate, unlearned anti-predator strategy that was previously considered to be a state of "fear paralysis" in which the animal becomes immobile due to fear ( Holmes, 1929 ). Many tests have been developed to quantify the fear sensitivity of animals, including open field tests, restraint experiments, novel object tests, and human contact experiments ( Forkman, et al, 2007 ; Franco, et al, 2022 ). However, the TI test is a simple and effective method of measuring fearfulness in chickens.…”