Ducks and geese have evolved for aquatic environments and retain strong motivation for bathing and preening behaviors that are denied to birds in intensive production systems without water access.
Denying ducks and geese access to open water is a fundamental welfare failure for species that evolved in aquatic environments. The motivation to bathe is not optional enrichment — it is a behavioral need essential for plumage maintenance and eye health. Intensive production systems without water access cause chronic welfare compromise in animals strongly motivated to seek it.