Livestock

Farmed Duck Welfare in Intensive Systems

Ducks are aquatic birds kept in barren environments without water access for preening and bathing in many intensive systems — welfare science shows the profound impact of water deprivation.

Key Facts

Around 19 million ducks are farmed in the UK annually
Ducks are obligate aquatic species that need water to maintain eye and bill health
Open water for bathing and preening is denied in most intensive duck housing
Eye infections and bill damage occur at higher rates in waterless systems
Duck Welfare Scheme voluntary standards require dipping water provision

Welfare Considerations

Denying ducks access to open water is a fundamental welfare failure for an aquatic species. Without water, ducks cannot maintain eye health, preen effectively, or perform natural bathing behaviour. Frustration from behavioural deprivation is measurable and significant. Eye lesions and bill deformities indicate chronic welfare compromise. Voluntary standards requiring dipping water represent a minimum; full bathing access is the welfare gold standard.

What You Can Do

Choose duck products certified to Duck Welfare Scheme standards
Ask retailers about water access provisions in their duck supply chains
Advocate for mandatory bathing water provision in national duck welfare codes
Support RSPCA Assured and higher-welfare duck certification expansion