New Study Highlights Benefits of Light Exposure for Incubating Chicks
Research conducted by The Roslin Institute in Scotland has revealed that exposing chicks to light before they hatch can positively impact their behavior, development, and welfare. The study involved incubating eggs under continuous darkness or a light schedule, followed by monitoring the behavior of the hatched chicks in different environments. Chicks exposed to light during incubation showed a preference for using shelters more frequently, indicating reduced stress and improved behavioral outcomes. Additionally, female chicks incubated under light conditions were found to weigh more at four weeks of age compared to those reared in darkness, suggesting potential long-term productivity benefits.