1. The aim of this study was to evaluate how splitting the dark period (scotoperiod) affects feeding behaviour and associated intestinal measures in broilers. 2. Ross 308 broilers were reared to 37 d in groups given either a daily 8-h continuous scotoperiod (DARK 8) or an intermittent light schedule with two equally spaced 4-h scotoperiods (DARK 4 + 4), which yielded the same total duration of @entity400 per 24 h. 3. Feeding behaviour was recorded weekly from 24-h video recordings of 24 groups each of 64 birds. Empty intestinal weights as well as their contents were measured weekly at 4 time points (n = 192). Digestive transit time was estimated on d 29 using a chromic oxide marker; production variables and the extent of foot @entity1909 were also recorded. 4. In the 3 h prior to a scotoperiod, feeding activity increased in @entity1573 from DARK 8 but not DARK 4 + 4. This increase was reflected in a higher relative content of the crop in DARK 8 at this time. 5. Immediately following the scotoperiod, feeding activity peaked and, although the @entity1573 in DARK 4 + 4 expressed more feeding behaviour in the first 20 min after the scotoperiod, the @entity1573 in DARK 8 had overall higher feeding activity across the day. However, DARK 4 + 4 had a higher feed intake and @entity1017 . The occurrence and severity of foot @entity1909 was similar between treatments. 6. In conclusion, broilers modify their feeding behaviour according to the prevailing light schedule. Eight consecutive hours of @entity400 reduced growth, but did not affect overall feed conversion efficiency, and did not appear to exacerbate hunger or foot @entity1909 to any great extent.

Splitting the scotoperiod: effects on feeding behaviour, intestinal fill and digestive transit time in broiler XXXX .

@entity1573 :: ('9031', 'Species') :: ['chickens'] @entity400 :: ('MESH:D014202', 'Disease') :: ['darkness'] @entity1909 :: ('MESH:D003872', 'Disease') :: ['pad dermatitis'] @entity1017 :: ('MESH:D015430', 'Disease') :: ['weight gain']
@entity1573 :: (9031,Species) :: ['chickens']
