The effects of different light periods on some production characteristics of pheasants (Phasianus colchicus)

The effects of different light periods on egg production characteristics and hatching traits of pheasants (Phasianus colchicus) were studied. The daily light period was increased from initially I I hr light (L): 13 hr darkness (D) to 16 hr L: 8 hr D in group 1. Birds were exposed to 16 hr L: 8 hr D and 8 hr L: 8 hr D: 8 hr L periods in groups 2 and 3 respectively. Following the onset of stimulatory light, the first egg was obtained within 23, 23 and 22 days in groups 1, 2 and 3 respectively. Egg production periods of pheasants were determined as 138, 138 and 136 days in groups 1, 2 and 3. Egg yields of pheasants in groups were 40.28, 56.57 and 67.68 egg/pheasant respectively. Average values of hatchability, fertility and hatch of fertile eggs were 39.48,48.40 and 54.09% (P < 0.05); 62.17,68.15 and 70.47% (P < 0.05); 63.50, 71.01 and 76.76% (P < 0.05) in groups 1, 2 and 3 respectively.