Farm Animals

Welfare of Farmed Ducks

Ducks are water-loving birds whose welfare on farms is often severely compromised by denial of access to open water for swimming and bathing.

Key Facts

Over 3 billion ducks are raised for meat and eggs globally each year
Ducks have waterproof feathers that require regular bathing to maintain
Pekin ducks are the dominant meat breed, raised in 7 weeks to market weight
Ducks raised without water access develop eye infections and feather damage
Some duck foie gras production involves force-feeding (gavage)

Welfare Considerations

Ducks are highly motivated to access open water — studies show they will work harder to access swim water than food or shelter. Industrial farms denying water access cause chronic eye, nostril, and plumage conditions. Even minimal water provision (nipple drinkers only) significantly increases suffering. Genuine welfare requires swim baths or ponds.

What You Can Do

Choose higher-welfare duck products certified by RSPCA Assured or equivalent
Reduce or eliminate duck consumption from factory-farmed sources
Support campaigns for mandatory water access standards for farmed ducks
Advocate with retailers to improve duck welfare sourcing policies