Over 20 million ducks are farmed for meat in the UK annually. Ducks have unique welfare needs related to water access that are often unmet in intensive systems.
The most significant welfare deficiency for farmed ducks is denial of water for swimming or bathing. Ducks prevented from immersing their heads develop eye and nasal discharge and cannot maintain plumage condition. Free-range or higher-welfare certified ducks must have access to open water under RSPCA Assured standards. Welfare legislation on duck water access remains inadequate in standard commercial settings.