Ducks are highly motivated to access water for swimming and bathing. Commercial duck production frequently denies this basic behavioural need, causing significant welfare deficits.
Ducks have evolved as semi-aquatic animals for whom access to open water is not a luxury but a behavioural necessity. Without water for immersion, ducks cannot perform the preening behaviours essential for plumage waterproofing and hygiene, cannot clean their sensitive eyes and nares, and are unable to express a fundamental aspect of their behavioural repertoire. Research shows that ducks given access to open water prioritise it strongly over other resources, demonstrating its motivational significance. Commercial systems denying open water cause chronic welfare deficits including ocular discharge, nasal blockage, and compromised plumage condition. Foie gras production adds acute welfare harms through force-feeding. Providing at minimum a drinker that allows head immersion represents a basic welfare requirement that should be mandatory in all commercial duck systems.