Influence of Stocking Density with Different Light System on the Growth Performance and Behavior in Broiler Chickens

Abstract

This study evaluated the effects of stocking density on performance and behavioral activities of 35-day-old broilers in relation to incandescent white bulb (IB) light and LED yellow and white light. A total of 1,650 day-old chicks were weighed and randomly allocated into six treatment groups in a 2 × 3 factorial arrangement based on stocking density (14 birds m and 22 birds m) and color of lights (IB; monochromatic LED yellow and white light) with five replicates for each treatment. The results showed that final body weight, weight gain and feed conversion of broilers were improved at a stocking density of 14 birds m with exposure to LED lights. Similarly, broilers spent more time exhibiting inactive behavior (e.g. standing) and active behaviors (e.g. walking and walking plus pecking) under 14 birds m with exposure to lights as compared that of other treatment groups. Regarding a stocking density of 22 birds m, broilers performance traits were negatively affected and also activities were less. The performance of broilers was not significantly altered for the main factor of different lights but broilers were less inactive (e.g less time spent sitting plus standing) and more time spent active behavior in walking under IB light than LED light. Thus, we concluded that a stocking density 14 birds m with exposure to LED light significantly improved broiler performance and behavioral activity and these conditions could therefore improve the overall welfare of farmed chickens. (