Duck egg production is a growing sector, particularly in Asia. Ducks have strong behavioural needs for open water access that are frequently denied in commercial egg production systems.
Egg-laying ducks have welfare needs that differ substantially from chickens, yet they are often housed in systems designed for poultry without accommodation for their aquatic behavioural requirements. The motivation to bathe is among the strongest in domestic ducks — studies show they will choose bathing water over food and spend significant time on immersive bathing when given access. Without this, ducks develop soiled plumage that impairs thermoregulation, and eye and nostril blockages from dried mucus become common. Feather pecking and aggression increase in high-density systems without water access. Pasture-based or enriched systems with paddling pools or water troughs — even if not fully immersive — represent significant welfare improvements and are achievable at commercial scale. Consumer and retailer demand for higher-welfare duck eggs is a key driver of industry improvement.