Ducks are farmed intensively on a large scale yet receive far less regulatory protection than chickens, creating significant welfare gaps.
Ducks are highly motivated to access open water for preening, bathing, and feeding. Deprivation of water access in intensive systems prevents ducks from maintaining plumage condition and performing natural waterbird behaviours. Frustration is evidenced by stereotypic head-dipping behaviours even with minimal water provision. Ducks in wet litter develop severe foot lesions. Fast-growing breeds suffer musculoskeletal problems similar to broiler chickens. The absence of species-specific legislation leaves duck welfare largely dependent on industry voluntarism.