Effects of Stocking Densities and Illuminance Levels on Skin Conditions of Broilers in Summer

This study aimed to assess the effects of different stocking densities and illuminance levels in the lairage period on skin conditions in broilers during summer. A total of 35-day-old 192 Ross 308 broilers were randomly assigned to a 3 × 2 factorial design, comprising three stocking densities (low density (LD): 292.12 cm²/kg, normal density (ND): 233.70 cm²/kg, high density (HD): 194.75 cm²/kg) and two illuminance levels (below 5 lux (LX) and above 5 lux (HX)). Birds were placed in lairage after transport in plastic crates (0.82 m × 0.57 m × 0.29 m), and birds were placed in lairage for 1 hour at temperatures exceeding 24°C. Feather condition and footpad dermatitis were scored after lairage as welfare indicators. Data were analyzed using a two-way ANOVA to assess the main effects of stocking density and lighting intensity and their interaction on feather condition and footpad dermatitis. There were no significant differences in feather condition or the incidence of footpad dermatitis associated with crating density and lighting intensity during lairage (<i>P</i>&gt;0.05). These findings suggest that broilers can endure various lairage conditions, including different stocking densities and illuminance levels, without significantly impacting skin conditions during summer. Further study under more specific environmental conditions is necessary to identify proper lairage conditions for broilers during summer.