Livestock

Farmed Duck Welfare and Water Access

Ducks are semi-aquatic birds with strong behavioural needs for water access that intensive farming denies.

Key Facts

Ducks need water for bathing, preening, and bill immersion
Intensive duck farms often provide only nipple drinkers
Foie gras production through force-feeding is banned in some countries
UK duck production has improved but standards vary

Welfare Considerations

Ducks denied water access cannot maintain feather waterproofing, clean their eyes and nostrils, or engage in natural foraging behaviours. Feather condition deteriorates, and eye problems develop. The frustration of these strong behavioural needs constitutes a significant welfare failure. Even minimal water provision — open-top drinkers — substantially improves welfare.

What You Can Do

Choose free-range or RSPCA Assured duck products
Avoid foie gras products
Advocate for mandatory water access requirements for farmed ducks
Support campaigns for higher duck welfare standards