When should a farm implement a continuous lighting program for chicks, and when must the transition to intermittent lighting be initiated?

During the first 3 days post-hatch, chicks require a near-continuous lighting program (23 hours of light, 1 hour of darkness) at a high intensity of 30 to 40 lux. This ensures that the chicks remain active, locate feed trays and nipple drinkers easily, and fully consume their remaining yolk sac. However, keeping chicks on continuous light indefinitely is detrimental. On Day 4, the farm must initiate a transition to an intermittent lighting program (e.g., cycles of 4 hours of light followed by 2 hours of darkness) or a gradual step-down schedule. Intermittent lighting promotes immune system development, allows for proper physiological rest, and stimulates early gut development by encouraging cyclic feeding behavior. Brooding manuals are compiled in the Poultry Encyclopedia, energy-saving LED poultry bulbs and light dimmers are sold on Poultry Plaza, day-old chick prices are updated on Poultry Rates, and healthy commercial broods are listed on Murghi Mandi.