Ducks are semi-aquatic birds with strong motivations for water immersion, and the denial of open water access in commercial duck farming causes significant welfare compromise.
The denial of open water access to commercial ducks represents a fundamental frustration of core behavioral needs in a species that evolved for semi-aquatic living. Ducks without bathing access show higher rates of feather damage, eye problems, and behavioral indicators of welfare compromise. The motivation to access water is so strong that ducks in choice tests consistently prioritize bathing over food when water is available. Welfare progress in duck production requires providing at minimum immersion bathing facilities, and ultimately moving toward systems that allow expression of the full behavioral repertoire these birds are motivated to perform.