Duck welfare in commercial production has historically lagged behind other poultry species. Recent welfare science and certification advances are driving improvements.
The denial of open water to farmed ducks represents a significant welfare compromise given the centrality of water behaviour in their natural behavioural repertoire. Research consistently shows that ducks given open water access spend significant proportions of time bathing, head-dipping, and swimming that are impossible without it. The RSPCA Assured scheme and some premium welfare labels require open water provision. Consumer demand for higher-welfare duck products and regulatory change are needed to make open water standard across the industry.