Although often considered trivial, lighting management actually plays a key role in the development and production performance of laying hens.

Advances in layer genetics today allow for longer and more stable production performance compared to previous generations. However, this potential can only be achieved when supported by proper management practices. One important factor that is still frequently overlooked is lighting management.

Light, according to physics, is part of the electromagnetic spectrum visible to the human eye. Meanwhile, according to the Indonesian Dictionary (KBBI), light is defined as rays or brightness from sources such as the sun, moon, or lamps that enable the eyes to see surrounding objects.

In many layer houses, lamps are typically installed in rows beneath the roof as part of the lighting program. Unfortunately, many farmers still install them without proper calculation, simply aiming to make the house look bright. Lighting schedules are also often inconsistent. In fact, proper lighting management is essential to maximize layer production performance.

When examined more closely, light has a direct influence on both behavior and biological processes in layers. From a behavioral perspective, light stimulates activity, which in cage systems is closely related to feeding and drinking behavior. In other words, without light there is no activity, which negatively affects feed intake (FI) and body weight (BW).

From a biological standpoint, light stimulates metabolic activity through the thyroid gland, which produces the hormone thyroxine. This hormone regulates metabolism and plays a role in growth, development, and egg production. In addition, light stimulates the hypothalamus to activate the pituitary gland to release Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH). FSH functions to stimulate egg formation, while LH triggers the release of the egg from the ovary into the oviduct.

Light is also related to the secretion of melatonin, which is produced by the pineal gland and the retina during darkness or when the birds are resting. When lights are turned off, melatonin is released to regulate metabolism and create a calmer condition. This hormone works in opposition to Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH), which triggers stress responses. This is why chickens are calmer in darker environments.

Although light plays an important role in growth and egg production, chickens still require periods without light. Excessively long lighting periods can encourage excessive activity, trigger stress, and reduce rest quality. Therefore, light–dark cycles are necessary to optimize growth and production.

During the egg production phase, a critical period that must be carefully managed is the onset of lay. At this stage, the balance between body maturity and sexual maturity is very important. Indicators of body maturity include BW and shank length (frame size), which are strongly influenced by feed management, while feed management itself is influenced by light stimulation as a trigger for feeding activity. Indicators of sexual maturity include visible signs such as a red and bright comb, shiny eyes, flock uniformity, and a pubic bone spacing of at least two fingers.

The minimum body weight for hens to start laying is 1.5 kg at 17–18 weeks of age. At peak production, hens should reach a minimum body weight of 1.8 kg, or an increase of about 300 grams, as a sign of balance between sexual and physical maturity. If the BW target has not been achieved, the lighting program should be delayed. Forcing lighting when BW is not yet adequate can lead to problems such as prolapse and poor production persistency. Therefore, the correct implementation of lighting programs is crucial.

In summary, light has different roles at each stage of rearing. During the DOC, starter, and grower phases, light functions to stimulate feeding and drinking activity. During the transition from pullet to early production, light helps synchronize body maturity and sexual maturity. Meanwhile, during the production phase, light plays a primary role in the ovulation process through stimulation of FSH and LH hormones for egg formation and release.

This article is an excerpt from the Management section of Poultry Indonesia magazine, December 2025 edition. Read the full article in Poultry Indonesia Magazine – December 2025 Edition. For subscriptions or further information, please contact: https://wa.me/+6287780120754 or sirkulasipoultry@gmail.com