Do animals need artificial light?

[no1_vern]

A farmer was charged with failing to meet the ‘psychological and ethological’ needs of a cow and calf at his farm .

Since then he has purchased a genset to produce electricity to light the barn - even though his own house doesnt have electricity.

I am baffled at the idea of providing electric lights for his cow and calf. How much light do the cows actually need to meet the "psychological and ethological" requirements? A 100 watt bulb? A 60 watt bulb? AFAIK the cows dont even see the spectrum of light produced by an electric bulb.

What do you think? Do cows need electric lights to be healthy and emotionally satisfied?

[Pexster]

I'm sure natural light would be better, but the guy refused to clean the windows or trim bushes to allow any light in.

[Chuckiechan]

They need light to make the milk every night.

[tony_j15]

so, if I'm reading this right, these cows are locked up, never move around, and never see daylight?
poor way to treat an animal, especially if you're trying to get milk or meat from 'em. Give them some grazing room and outdoor exercise, and they'll taste delicious.