Ducks farmed for egg production face welfare challenges distinct from chickens. Their need for water access, social contact, and species-appropriate housing requires specific attention in egg duck systems.
Egg-laying duck welfare shares the fundamental water access problem of meat ducks: without the ability to immerse their heads and bathe, ducks develop eye discharge, nasal blockage, and compromised plumage that causes chronic discomfort. Their welfare needs are more water-intensive than chickens and require specifically designed housing that provides water access alongside dry resting areas. Intensive egg duck systems that replicate conventional laying hen housing without adapting to species-specific needs cause chronic welfare deficits. As duck eggs grow in popularity in Western markets, welfare standards for egg ducks must develop alongside. Outdoor access with paddling water — the norm in traditional smallholder duck production — provides the gold standard, while indoor systems must at minimum provide drinkers allowing full head immersion.