Lighting management in broiler houses significantly affects bird welfare, growth patterns, and the incidence of metabolic and leg disorders.
Lighting programmes that prioritise growth over welfare by maintaining near-continuous illumination disrupt natural circadian rhythms, increase leg disorders from reduced rest, and prevent normal behavioural rhythms. Dark periods allow broilers to rest, which is important for leg health and bone development. Low-intensity uniform lighting reduces spatial awareness and movement. Improving lighting programmes through adequate dark periods, appropriate intensity, and natural light access represents a low-cost welfare improvement available to all producers.