| Abstract: | The object of the present paper was to examine the influence of light intensity on the behaviour of calves. For this purpose, 20 calves of both sexes and of the breeds German Friesian, Simmental and their cross-breeds were kept in groups of 5 animals at 4 different levels of lighting: 2, 20, 100 or 130 lx. The behaviour of the animals was observed once a week by video. For each behaviour pattern and each light intensity, duration, frequency and daily rhythm were calculated. Furthermore, the behaviour sequences were examined.At 2 lx, the lowest level of lighting, the longest duration and most frequent phases of resting behaviour were noted. The daily rhythm of resting behaviour was more distinct in the better-lighted stable than in that with less lighting.Differences also occurred in feeding behaviour, which lasted longer at the higher light intensity.The influence of the light was clearest on social behaviour, and mainly on playing behaviour. The duration and frequency of play-fighting and solitary play-running increased with higher light intensity.Licking of objects was also significantly influenced by the level of lighting. It lasted longest at 130 lx and was shortest at 2 lx.Examination of the behaviour sequences showed that grooming and licking of objects were present in the majority of sequences. Apart from their functions, these activities are also of importance as displacement or redirected activities.The differences in the behaviour due to different lighting could be the result of worse visual ability at the lower light intensities. |
