Lighting plays a key role in goat reproduction.
With RUDAX, HATO introduces a precision lighting system that supports the biological rhythms of animals and the operational goals of modern farms. While not developed exclusively for goats, RUDAX builds on proven lighting strategies, like those used with EXTREME LED, to help farms optimize breeding conditions through smart, controllable lighting.
In 2017, De Römer V.O.F., a Dutch goat farm with 3,000 milking goats, faced a challenge. The animals weren’t showing reproductive readiness outside the natural breeding season. The issue was traced back to low light levels and poor contrast between day and night in the barn.
The farm implemented a tailored lighting plan using HATO’s EXTREME LED system. By maintaining 200 lux and simulating autumn conditions, the goats responded with improved reproductive behaviour. This allowed the farm to better manage breeding schedules without increasing the number of breeding cycles per year.
Before:
The barn had structurally low lux levels and minimal contrast. Bucks didn’t respond to out-of-season breeding cues.
After:
A consistent 200 lux was achieved across the barn. The lighting created a clear day-night rhythm. Bucks showed increased rutting behaviour, and the farm saw improved fertility and better working conditions.
RUDAX builds on the lessons from this case and introduces a more advanced solution. It offers:
RUDAX gives farms the tools to align lighting with breeding schedules, improve animal welfare, and support consistent production.
The experience at De Römer shows how lighting can directly influence breeding success. While EXTREME LED was used in that case, RUDAX incorporates the same principles, plus advanced features like smart control and tailored light spectra, to make this approach more effective, energy-efficient, and easier to manage across various farm setups.