Cattle lighting

Cows have a wide field of vision but poor depth perception, making them sensitive to shadows, reflections, and sudden changes in brightness. If lighting is uneven, it can cause cows to hesitate, stress, or avoid certain areas like feeding stations or milking robots. Consistent, flicker-free lighting makes barns more comfortable and safer for movement, reducing slipping and improving lying time. 

In addition, cows can perceive flicker at higher frequencies than some standard lighting provides, especially under poor-quality LEDs. That’s why it’s essential to use lighting designed specifically for livestock. Reducing visual stress not only supports animal welfare but also boosts routine efficiency for farmers. 

The optimal lighting schedule for dairy cows is 16–18 hours of bright light followed by 6–8 hours of darkness. This rhythm supports the natural melatonin cycle, which is linked to hormonal balance and milk production. Long-day lighting has been proven to increase milk yield by up to 7%, improve reproductive performance, and promote better feed intake. 

During the dark period, true darkness is important—excess light can disrupt rest and reduce the benefits of the light cycle. A lighting intensity of 150–200 lux at cow eye level is recommended for maximum effect. Automated systems can help maintain consistent light levels throughout the day, even in barns with limited daylight. 

Yes, lighting plays a big role in the healthy growth of calves and youngstock. Well-designed lighting helps support consistent feeding routines, improves visibility in group housing, and encourages movement and exploration—all of which contribute to stronger growth. Calves exposed to good lighting early on tend to eat more, gain weight faster, and show better immune response. 

Lighting can also influence reproductive development. Studies show that young heifers reared under proper long-day lighting may reach puberty earlier and have more successful first pregnancies. Investing in lighting during the early stages is a simple yet powerful way to improve the long-term productivity and welfare of your herd.