Farrowing Sows
Also in a farrowing barn, 16 hours of light, (with a light level between 100 and 150 Lux), is recommended, followed by an 8-hour dark period.
For farrowing sows, lighting should be provided in such a way that piglet growth is also stimulated.
By implementing long(er) periods of light you give the piglets an opportunity for more drinking sessions, this increases the amount of absorbed milk. Good lighting in the barn pays off, it allows piglets to grow better, and it also gives the weaker piglets a better survival rate.
Fattening pigs
Fattening pigs are also stimulated to feed intake by lighting. Eating allows them to grow, given a lighting regime of 16 hours light,
(with a 100 Lux. light level), to be followed by 8 hours of darkness.
Sows in rearing
Sows in rearing are most stimulated by the presence of a boar, but you should not underestimate the effect of lighting here either.
I recommend a lighting period of 8 hours of light, (with 150 Lux at eye level of the sows), followed by 16 hours of darkness.
The right lighting in the mating pen
Optimal lighting in the mating pen stimulates oestrus and has a positive influence and incentive on ovulation.
In my opinion, the illuminance in a mating pen can easily be between 250 and 350 Lux.
I use the same lighting regime in the mating pen as in the farrowing pen: 16 hours of light, followed by 8 hours of darkness.
In piglet and fattening facilities, complete darkness for 8 hours is recommended, followed by a 30-minute simulation of sunrise and sunset to reduce the potential stress caused by sudden changes in light conditions.
Source photos Marga Fogt and Ronald Rongen