Poultry Judging Practice Test

Chicken and turkeys are particularly sensitive to which spectrum of light?

1. Green

2. Red

3. Blue

4. Ultraviolet

The correct answer is: Red

Chickens and turkeys are particularly sensitive to the red spectrum of light, which is important for several reasons related to their behavior and physiology. Birds possess photoreceptor cells in their eyes that are highly responsive to certain wavelengths, and the red light spectrum plays a significant role in their social interaction, mating behaviors, and feeding habits. The ability to perceive red light enhances their recognition of each other as well as their environment, impacting their comfort and activity levels. The presence of red light can also affect the birds' hormone levels, which are critical for reproduction and overall health. In poultry production, understanding this sensitivity to red light can aid in creating environments that promote natural behaviors, thereby improving their well-being and productivity. By using specific colored lighting, poultry producers can influence behaviors such as feeding, mating, and aggression, making red light particularly advantageous for enhancing poultry management systems.