In the livestock industry, red light is a key tool for regulating chicken physiology and behavior. Its role is based on the unique visual system and photosensitive biology of chickens. Below is a detailed explanation of the scientific principles and applications:
1. Scientific Principles: Chicken Vision
The Unique Retinal Structure:
Chicken eyes have cones for four colors (red, green, blue, and ultraviolet), but are most sensitive to red light (600–700 nm).
The retina contains numerous opsin receptors, and red light wavelengths (650–680 nm) are highly effective in activating these nerve signals.
2. The Core Effects of Red Light on Chickens
✅ 1. Growth and Development (Broilers)
Stimulation of the Hypothalamus: Red light directly acts on hypothalamic neurons, increasing the secretion of growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1).
Weight Gain Data:
Broilers exposed to red light gain 5–8% more weight than those exposed to white light (Poultry Science, 2020).
Improves feed conversion by 3–5% (reduces energy expenditure on activity).
✅ 2. Improves egg production (laying hens)
Extends the egg-laying cycle: Red light inhibits the secretion of melatonin (a sleep-inducing hormone) from the pineal gland, prolonging light stimulation during the egg-laying period.
Improves egg quality:
Increases eggshell calcification by 6–10% (red light promotes vitamin D₃ synthesis);
Darker yolk color (red light enhances carotenoid deposition).
✅ 3. Reduces aggressive behavior
Calming effect:
Red light reduces the chicken's retina's sensitivity to moving objects, reducing visual provocation signals.
Research data: Feather pecking rates decrease by 40–60% under red light (Applied Animal Behavior Science).
✅ 4. Nighttime activity management: Chickens can maintain near-perfect vision in red light ≤ 5 lux (human eyes require ≥ 30 lux), making nighttime patrols easier without disturbing the flock.
⚠️ III. Red Light Usage Specifications
Parameters: Broiler Farming, Layer Farming
Wavelength: 650–680 nm, 630–660 nm
Light Intensity: Broiler Period: 20–30 lux
Growing Period: 5–10 lux, Laying Period: 10–15 lux
Daily Duration: 18–20 hours, 16–18 hours
Prohibited Periods: 72 hours before slaughter (avoid stress), Molting Period (needs dark stimulation)
💡 Key Point: Short-wavelength blue light (450 nm) inhibits growth and increases aggression in chickens-avoid using cool white LEDs!
🌟 IV. Practical Applications of Red Light Technology
Equipment Selection:
Specialized 660 nm deep red LED lamps (80% lower energy consumption than incandescent lamps);
Mounting Height: 2–2.5 meters above the ground (for uniform coverage).
Energy-saving solution:
Solar power system + timer dimmer (e.g., combined with the 450W solar panel mentioned in the previous user's question).
Animal welfare controversy:
The EU requires a 6-hour dark period (to prevent overstimulation);
Production efficiency must be balanced with the chickens' natural rhythms.
❓ V. Common Misconceptions
Q: Incandescent yellow light can also increase weight, so why must red light be used?
→ A: Incandescent light spectrum contains 15–20% blue-green light, which partially offsets the growth-promoting effect; red LEDs precisely match the sensitive wavelength range of chickens.
Q: Will red light damage chickens' eyesight?
→ A: Light above 650 nm is long-wavelength, contains no UV radiation, and is safe for long-term use (avoid exposure to strong light >200 lux).
Chickens require red light because it:
① Penetrates tissue directly into the hypothalamus, effectively regulating growth and reproductive hormones;
② Reduces aggression and improves animal welfare;
③ Optimizes energy distribution and significantly increases farming efficiency.
However, strict wavelength, intensity, and duration regulations must be adhered to to avoid overuse. you can know more information on http://www.benweilight.com
