Red Light for Chickens: What's the Deal?

Housing & Equipment
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Understanding the Benefits of Red Light for Chickens

I’ve been hearing a lot about using red light in chicken coops and how it can positively impact our feathered friends. I’m curious about the benefits it provides, especially regarding their behavior and overall health. Here are some points I’d like to discuss:

Red Light and Pecking Behavior

  • Less Aggression: Some folks claim that using red light can help reduce pecking and aggression among chickens. Has anyone experienced this firsthand?
  • Harmonious Coops: If red light can create a more tranquil environment, I’m all for it! What are your thoughts?

Sleep Cycles and Stress Reduction

  • Natural Sleep Patterns: I’ve read that red light can align with their natural sleep cycles and reduce stress. For those who have implemented this, have you noticed any changes in your chickens’ behavior at night?
  • Health Benefits: Are there any documented health benefits associated with improved sleep? It would be great to understand the physiological impacts.

Practical Installation Tips

  • Heat Lamps: For those who use red heat lamps, what are your best practices? I imagine there are safety concerns, especially regarding fire hazards or overheating. Any advice?
  • Duration and Timing: How long do you leave the red lights on? Is there a specific time you find works best?

Additional Considerations

  • Different Breeds: Do certain breeds of chickens respond better to red light than others? Any insights on this?
  • Cost-Effectiveness: Lastly, is the investment in red lights worthwhile in the long term?

I’m looking for as much insight as possible, so any experiences, recommendations, or tips would be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance for your help!

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I’ve been using red light in my chicken coop for over a year now, and I’ve definitely seen an increase in egg production! The warm glow seems to keep them calm.

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Interesting! Did you notice any changes in their health or behavior aside from egg production?

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Absolutely! Red light can reduce stress. When I switched, my hens were way more relaxed and social. It’s quite amazing!

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That’s great to hear! I thought it was just an old wives’ tale. How many hours a day do you keep it on?

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I usually have it on for 16 hours a day. It mimics the long days of summer, which is good for laying hens. Anyone else do something similar?

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That sounds logical! Are there any drawbacks I’ve missed?

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I think the main concern is that some chickens might get too used to it and might struggle with natural light changes. But for me, it’s been mostly positive.

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Maybe they’ll evolve into creatures of the night! Imagine a chicken disco with red lights! Haha. But seriously, my chickens perked up a lot with red lights.

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Haha, that’s hilarious! Can you really say it helped with their well-being?

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Yes, I noticed more active behavior and less pecking order issues. Overall, they seem healthier. It’s quite fascinating!

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I’m really curious about the science behind this! Does anyone have articles or studies that show this effect?

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There are studies indicating that red light wavelengths can increase serotonin levels, which may lead to better health in chickens. A lot of people swear by it!

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While I’m intrigued, I do wonder if it’s just a fad among chicken keepers. Anyone seen long-term results?

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Fair point! I think it depends on the individual flock and their environment, but my hens are happy and productive!

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Setting up red lighting for chickens is a great idea! Place the lights about 2-3 feet above the ground to ensure the hens benefit without being overwhelmed. Ideal exposure time is around 12-14 hours daily to support their natural circadian rhythms.

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That’s really helpful info! Also, keep a timer to automate the lighting schedule. Consistency is key for chicken health.

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How long do you leave the lights on at night? I worry about them needing rest without bright lights shining all night.

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Good point! I’ve found that 10-12 hours of darkness helps balance the effects of red light. You can experiment with it depending on your flock’s behavior.

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Safety is a must! Make sure the lights are secured properly and are heat-resistant to prevent fire hazards. I’ve had good luck with LED red bulbs—they’re energy-efficient and cooler.

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