In modern aviary systems, managing bird distribution is critical to maintaining flock welfare and preventing losses. One of the key risk factors in laying hen systems is piling along compartmentation lines, which can lead to smothering, unrest, and reduced performance.
While structural design plays a role, one of the most effective and controllable management tools is often overlooked: light.
Understanding the Challenge: Why Piling Happens
Piling frequently occurs in areas where birds remain stationary or tend to congregate, particularly along internal partitions within the aviary system. These gathering points disrupt natural bird flow, increase stress, and elevate the risk of smothering.
Instead of accepting piling as an unavoidable behavior, targeted light management allows producers to actively influence how birds use the space.
Functional Light Zoning: Guiding Behavior with Purpose
Within the aviary system, functional light zoning creates purposeful contrasts that guide bird movement and distribution.
1. Central System Areas: White-Red Enriched Light
In the central zones of the aviary, white light enriched with red wavelengths is applied.
This spectrum:
- Supports calm behavior
- Enhances orientation
- Encourages preferred use of the system
Birds naturally gravitate toward these zones to search for nests and lay eggs. The result is a more stable and balanced bird distribution across the system.
2. Along Compartmentation: White-Blue Enhanced Light
Along internal partitions, a different light strategy is used: white light with an increased blue component.
This spectrum:
- Stimulates activity and movement
- Makes these areas less attractive for prolonged staying
- Encourages birds to move through rather than gather
By reducing the appeal of these zones, compartmentation lines no longer become congregation points, significantly lowering the risk of piling and smothering.
Visible and Measurable Results
The impact of light zoning is not only evident in bird behavior, it is also objectively visible within the barn.
Practical observations show that manure belts near the compartmentation remain noticeably cleaner. This indicates that birds are spending less time in those areas and that overall flow within the system has improved.
Cleaner belts. Better distribution. Reduced risk.
Creating Functional Contrast
The key to this strategy is contrast.
Not the same light everywhere, but light tailored to the intended function of each zone.
By combining:
- White-red enriched light within the system
- White-blue enhanced light along compartmentation
Producers create a functional lighting environment that:
- Improves bird distribution
- Reduces piling
- Lowers smothering risk
- Enhances calmness and controllability
- Supports overall flock welfare
Light as a Management Tool
In complex aviary systems, lighting is no longer just about visibility. It becomes an active management tool: guiding movement, influencing behavior, and supporting welfare through science-based design.
When applied strategically, light zoning transforms the barn environment from passive infrastructure into a dynamic system that works with bird behavior, not against it.
Contact our team to learn how our tailored lighting solutions can help your operation thrive.
