Farm Animal Welfare

Welfare of Farmed Ducks and Geese

Ducks and geese are the most water-deprived farmed birds — commercial systems routinely deny these highly motivated water-bathing species access to open water.

Key Facts

Ducks spend up to 30% of waking time performing water-related behaviors in nature
Commercial duck farms typically provide only nipple drinkers, not open water
Eye and bill abnormalities are common in water-deprived commercial ducks
Foie gras production involves force-feeding causing distress and liver pathology
Several EU countries have banned foie gras production but import it freely

Welfare Considerations

Water deprivation in ducks causes profound behavioral frustration — these animals have strong motivational drives to bathe, preen, and forage in water that are persistently thwarted in commercial systems. Bill and eye pathologies develop from inability to flush mucous membranes. Welfare science consistently identifies open water access as a priority need for captive ducks.

What You Can Do

Avoid foie gras products
Choose duck products from farms providing open water access
Advocate for welfare regulations requiring water access for farmed ducks
Support organizations campaigning against foie gras import
Reduce or eliminate duck and goose consumption from conventional supply chains