Calf Lighting in Winter – 200 Lux for 16 Hours Boosts Growth | RN Solutions

Calves in the dark season – how to stimulate growth and development with the right lighting

During the winter months, the natural light level in the barn drops significantly, affecting the calves’ behaviour and development. However, with the right lighting, you can compensate and ensure optimal conditions for growth, activity, and wellbeing – even in the darkest months of the year.

Light affects more than you think

For calves and young cattle, light is an important biological factor. It regulates the circadian rhythm and directly affects activity levels and feed intake. When lighting is controlled strategically, it can promote both weight gain and a stronger immune system.

Especially during the first months of life, it is crucial that the environment supports stable development. A lack of light can lead to reduced movement, lower feed intake, and a generally poorer start – with consequences lasting all the way to first calving.

RN Solutions recommends: 200 lux for 16 hours

At RN Solutions, we recommend a targeted light level of 200 lux for 16 hours daily in the calf barn. This is a practical and well-documented level that creates a balance between biological stimulation and calmness in the barn.

200 lux is sufficient to activate the calf’s vision and stimulate behaviour without overstimulation. At the same time, 16 hours of light ensures a “long-day photoperiod,” helping maintain high activity, better appetite, and more uniform growth – even during the winter months.

With proper lighting, light becomes not just a technical installation but an active management tool.

Why lighting makes a difference

Calves that stay in sufficient and stable light are generally more active, eat more frequently, and grow better. This results in:

• Better feed efficiency

• Stronger and more robust calves

• Fewer cases of disease

• Easier management and more uniform groups

In short: A better foundation for continued development and a stronger future cow.

How to get started with calf lighting

RN Solutions offers professional advice and complete lighting solutions to help you get the full benefit of your barn lighting investment.

We begin with an assessment of the lighting conditions in your calf barn and provide a concrete recommendation for fixture type, placement, and control. The solution is installed and adjusted correctly – and we follow up to ensure that you achieve the desired effect on growth and wellbeing.

Are your calves ready for winter?

The light level in the calf barn has a greater impact than most people realize.
With 200 lux for 16 hours, you create optimal conditions for growth, health, and development – even in the darkest months of the year.

Contact RN Solutions today and get a solution that matches your barn and your goals.
We advise, deliver, and ensure that the light works for you – not against you.