A Survey and Overview of Lighting Practices in the U. S. Turkey Breeder Industry

A survey to address lighting management practices was sent to members of the turkey breeder industry. Surveys representing 39 complexes were returned. The results indicate that members of the turkey breeder industry have a good basic understanding of light management. However, there was variation in response to some of the questions. Most of the respondents photostimulate their hens with 14 to 15 hr of light/day; the next-highest number gradually increase the day length to 16 to 18 hr/day. High pressure sodium (HPS) lights were indicated as the most common light source, followed by incandescent and fluorescent. Half of the respondents use phase shifting of light; the majority indicated that they do not use intermittent or step-down/step-up lighting programs. Most indicated that they are satisfied with their lighting programs but indicated interest or concern for improving their programs, especially with respect to the proper light intensity for specific ages or reproductive stages of their breeder turkeys. A discussion of light and light management is provided.