Duck egg production raises welfare concerns distinct from chicken egg production, including the semi-aquatic needs of ducks and the specific challenges of housing these behaviorally complex birds.
Duck welfare in egg production is poorly regulated relative to chicken welfare - ducks can be kept in systems with no water access for bathing despite this being a clear behavioral need. The welfare compromise is visible: ducks in dry, waterless housing have soiled plumage, eye discharge, and show frantic, frustrated bathing movements on dry surfaces. Providing adequate water access is a minimal welfare requirement for any duck egg production system.