Ducks are waterfowl that have specific welfare needs including access to open water, which is often absent in intensive production systems. The gap between duck welfare requirements and typical farming conditions is among the largest of any commercial livestock species.
Ducks without access to open water cannot perform preening behaviour essential for waterproofing their plumage. Without waterproofing, ducks can become hypothermic if they contact moisture. Eye and nasal cavity hygiene depend on access to water deep enough for the head to be submerged. Foot health in ducks is maintained by access to water that allows foot washing. Intensive duck systems without open water cause multiple simultaneous welfare deficits that are inherent to the system design rather than management failures.