Farm Animals

Farmed Duck Open Water: Innovation and Welfare Outcomes

Innovation in duck open water provision demonstrates that welfare improvements are commercially feasible in mainstream duck farming.

Key Facts

Rocking drinkers and shower systems provide partial water access at lower cost than ponds
Studies show ducks with shower systems spend more time in positive behaviours than those without
Full bathing access in water troughs significantly improves feather condition compared to no access
Consumer willingness to pay for welfare-labelled duck products supports higher welfare economics

Welfare Considerations

Even partial open water provision significantly improves duck feather condition and behaviour compared to no water access. Innovation in affordable water provision systems is making welfare improvements accessible to mainstream producers. Consumer demand is the primary driver of adoption.

What You Can Do

Choose duck products from farms providing verified open water access
Support supermarket commitments to duck water access welfare standards
Advocate for minimum water access requirements in duck welfare regulations