QUAIL PERFORMANCE AND WELFARE AS AFFECTED BY LIGHT PROGRAMS

Authors

Department of Hygiene , Prevention Medicine and Feeding ,Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Moshtohor ,Banha Branch, ZagazLig University, Egypt.

Abstract

The objective of this study was to compare between the effects of the intermittent lighting program Consisting of 4 repeated cycles of 1 hour Light : 3 darkness and a nearly continuous lighting program (23 hours light : 1 hour darkness) on the performance and welfare of  quails. The use of intermittent lighting has been shown to increase the final body weight and weight gain. It also reduced feed intake and improved feed conversion. The mortality rate was not affected by the lighting programs. Quails reared under the intermittent light had low frequency of pecking, twisted legs and eye abnormalities and 100% perfect feather condition sores.

Main Subjects