Ducks farmed for meat and eggs have complex welfare needs rooted in their semi-aquatic biology. Most commercial duck farming systems fail to meet these needs, particularly denying access to open water.
Ducks are among the most welfare-compromised farmed animals because the gap between their biological needs and standard commercial conditions is particularly wide. Their semi-aquatic nature is not a preference but a fundamental biological characteristic — their bills, eyes, plumage maintenance, and thermoregulation all depend on water access. Ducks kept without sufficient open water develop eye problems, are unable to maintain feather condition essential for thermoregulation, and cannot perform natural cleaning behaviors. Research shows ducks in water-deprived systems show chronic stress and increased injurious pecking. Foie gras production involves repeated force-feeding that causes liver disease and distress — its production is prohibited in over 15 countries. Higher-welfare systems providing pond or shower access, adequate space, and natural light represent a significant improvement over standard intensive housing, though even these fall short of full natural behavioral expression.