Ducks are semi-aquatic birds whose welfare is fundamentally compromised by conventional indoor farming systems that deny water access. Meeting their basic behavioral needs requires system-level change.
Duck welfare in conventional farming is compromised primarily by denial of water immersion. Eye discharge, nasal blockage, and feather deterioration in water-deprived ducks cause chronic discomfort and indicate impaired natural function. The behavioral frustration of being unable to access water — a strongly motivated behavior for waterfowl — adds psychological suffering. Foie gras production represents an extreme welfare case: force-feeding causes esophageal lesions, respiratory compromise from liver pressing on lungs, and acute distress during twice-daily gavage. The EU Scientific Committee on Animal Health has concluded that foie gras production causes suffering and is incompatible with the EU directive requiring animals to be kept free from unnecessary suffering. Better duck welfare requires open water access as a minimum standard.