Ducks are aquatic birds with strong motivation to access water. Most commercial duck systems deny them access to water deep enough to bathe in, causing chronic frustration and health problems.
Denying ducks access to open water for bathing and head-immersion is a fundamental welfare failure. Ducks' eyes, nostrils, and bill require regular washing with water, and inability to do so causes infections and discomfort. Social bathing and splashing are also strong natural behaviours. The contrast between natural duck behaviour and standard farm conditions is dramatic. Higher welfare systems providing spray systems, shallow ponds or at minimum dip pools represent a significant improvement.