December 13, 2022
Effect of Different XTi PAWS Recipes on Weight Gain and Feed Intake of Heifers in an Open-air Feedlot, 10/10/2022 – 12/21/2022
Internal XTi trial in partnership with private feedlot owner
Conclusion: Heifers exposed to XTi lighting in an open-air feedlot showed significant improvements in weight gain and feed conversion over 72 days.
Study Objective:
- To evaluate the effect of different XTi PAWS recipes on weight gain and feed conversion of heifers in an open-air feedlot setting.
Background:
- Previous internal XTi trials had indicated that PAWS lighting can improve weight gain and feed conversion in poultry and bovine.
- Previous studies had shown an improvement in measured metrics even when animals under XTi lighting were exposed to ambient light sources.
- Non-invasive strategies to improve stress, animal health, and productivity in the beef industry would have tremendous impacts on animal welfare and financial results.
Methods:
- The study was conducted in an open-air feedlot in eastern Colorado.
- Mixed breed heifers were placed into 3 pens. XTi pen R (n=73), XTi pen B (n=76), and Control pen (n=50)
- XTi linear lights were placed along the feed bunk and around water sources.
- Bovine were managed and fed per standard farm operations over 72 days.
- Heifers were weighed at the end of 72 days and feed conversion was calculated.
Results:
- Heifers under 1 of the 2 XTi recipes showed a significant increase in weight gain and feed conversion. The 2nd XTi recipe showed less weight gain than the control pen and had a smaller improvement in feed conversion.
- Average starting weights were 398.5 lbs (XTi) and 415 lbs (Control)
- XTi lit heifers had an average increase in weight gain per heifer/day of -1.1% (XTi R) and 3.2% (XTi B), compared to control heifers.
- Heifers under XTi lighting had an average decrease in feed conversion of 3.4% (XTi R) and 7.4% (XTi B), compared to control heifers.
Discussion:
- Exposing heifers to XTi lighting in an open-air feedlot showed a significant improvement in weight gain and feed conversion in 1 of the 2 XTi recipes over the course of 72 days.
- Different XTi light “recipes” have the potential to manipulate animal metrics in beneficial ways for both the animal and the producer.
- XTi lighting can have substantial financial and animal welfare benefits in an open-air feedlot setting.