Duck Egg Production Welfare | Animal Welfare Hub

Duck egg production systems vary from intensive battery-style to free-range, with significant welfare implications for these water-loving birds.

Key Facts

Ducks raised for eggs are typically confined in indoor systems without water for swimming
Duck egg production is a smaller industry than chicken eggs but growing in popularity
Khaki Campbell and Indian Runner ducks are common laying breeds
Ducks produce eggs for 2-3 years before production declines and they are typically culled
Free-range duck eggs are available from farms with outdoor access and water provision
Male ducklings from egg-production breeds are typically culled at hatch as economically valueless
Ducks require water for eye, nasal, and bill health even when swimming access is not provided
Free-range ducks have dramatically better behavioral welfare outcomes than confined flocks

Welfare Considerations

Ducks in confined egg production systems suffer from inability to access water for bathing and swimming - fundamental behavioral needs for aquatic birds. Eye infections, nasal discharge, and bill abnormalities are common in water-restricted ducks. Male duckling culling at hatch represents a welfare problem identical to that in hen egg production. The specialty egg market premium for duck eggs could support higher welfare production systems if consumers consistently choose free-range certified products. Duck egg welfare has received less attention than hen egg welfare despite similar issues.

What You Can Do

Choose free-range certified duck eggs that require outdoor access and water provision
Ask retailers about the welfare standards for duck egg producers they stock
Support retailers phasing out duck eggs from systems without water access
Advocate for welfare standards for duck egg production equivalent to those for hens
Reduce duck egg consumption from confined systems without water access