Introduction to Duck Welfare
Animal welfare in farming systems is a critical aspect of modern agriculture. It focuses on the physical and psychological well-being of animals and includes a wide range of factors, including proper nutrition, suitable living conditions, health care, and the ability of animals to express natural behaviors. The welfare of ducks in farming systems is a multifaceted issue influenced by various environmental and management factors. As poultry farming practices evolve, understanding how elements such as flooring systems, stocking density, ventilation, lighting, water sources, and nesting areas impact duck health and well-being becomes increasingly crucial. Each of these factors plays a distinct role in shaping the overall welfare of ducks, from their physical health to their behavioral needs.
Key Factors for Duck Health and Well-being
Flooring Systems
The choice between slatted and littered flooring for ducks affects their welfare. Studies have shown mixed results: slatted flooring is linked to concerns about mobility and balance, while littered flooring raises issues with dust levels. Research indicates no significant differences in eye and nostril conditions between ducks on slatted versus littered floors during winter. However, ducks on littered floors showed fewer eye problems but more clogged nostrils in summer. Ammonia levels, a concern for respiratory health, have not differed significantly between the two flooring types, and no studies have specifically addressed the impact of flooring on respiratory diseases in ducks. Production parameters also vary, with littered flooring leading to lower growth rates and higher feed conversion ratios in some studies, although mortality rates and body weight impacts remain inconclusive. Research gaps include the effects of partially slatted flooring, other bedding types, and specific design considerations for flooring systems. (1)
Stocking Density and Space Availability
Stocking density affects growth, behavior, and welfare of Pekin ducks. Higher densities are associated with reduced growth rates and increased stress, though impacts on other welfare indicators, such as feather damage and gait issues, are less studied. Recommendations suggest a maximum of 7 to 8 ducks per square meter, but these are often based on production rather than behavioral needs. Little is known about the optimal density for ducks raised for eggs, and more research is needed on commercial scales to understand these effects better. (2)
Ventilation and Air Quality
Proper ventilation is crucial for maintaining air quality and duck welfare. A study highlighted that high microbial aerosol concentrations, influenced by ventilation and litter management, negatively affect ducks' health, including increased stress and susceptibility to infections. However, this study did not reflect typical commercial conditions, indicating a need for further research on how ventilation and management practices affect duck welfare. (3)
The Role of Lighting in Duck Welfare
Lighting conditions impact duck physiology and behavior, with varying effects on growth and stress levels. Research on photoperiods reveals conflicting results: longer light periods may increase body weight but not feed conversion ratio, while other studies show different impacts on stress and immune response. Most research has focused on meat ducks, leaving a gap in understanding how lighting affects breeder ducks. Overall, while lighting can influence various aspects of duck health, more research is needed to determine the optimal lighting conditions for different duck production stages. (4)
Water Sources and Duck Hygiene
Access to water sources, such as open ponds or troughs, is thought to influence the welfare of Pekin ducks, particularly concerning eye, nostril, and feather cleanliness. Studies have shown mixed results:
- Ducks with access to open water sources generally have better eye and nostril conditions compared to those with nipple drinkers, which may lead to crusty eyes and dirty nostrils.
- Water source type also impacts feather cleanliness, though results vary between studies.
- Key production measures like body weight, growth rate, and mortality rates show no consistent impact from water source type. However, in some cases, troughs may be associated with higher mortality rates, possibly due to water contamination. (5)
Nesting Areas
Nesting is a significant behavioral need for egg-laying Pekin ducks. They are internally motivated to access nest boxes, and recent research has shown that ducks are willing to exert considerable effort to access them. For example, a study demonstrated that some ducks would push through a door weighted up to 160% of their body weight to reach nest boxes. This motivation highlights the importance of providing adequate nesting resources. (6)
References
- Fraley S.M., Fraley G.S., Karcher D.M., Makagon M.M., Lilburn M.S. Influence of plastic slatted floors compared with pine shaving litter on Pekin Duck condition during the summer months. Poult. Sci. 2013;92:1706–1711.
- Xie M., Jiang Y., Tang J., Wen Z.G., Huang W., Hou S.S. Effects of stocking density on growth performance, carcass traits, and foot pad lesions of White Pekin ducks. Poult. Sci. 2014;93:1644–1648.
- Yu G.L., Wei L.M., Liu Y.Y., Liu J.Y., Wang Y., Gao J., Chai T.J., Cai Y.M. Influence of indoor microbial aerosol on the welfare of meat ducks. Br. Poult. Sci. 2016;57:12–22.
- Deep A., Schwean-Lardner K., Crowe T.G., Fancher B.I., Classen H.L. Effect of light intensity on broiler behaviour and diurnal rhythms. Appl. Anim. Behav. Sci. 2012;136:50–56.
- Jones T.A., Waitt C.D., Dawkins M.S. Water off a duck's back: showers and troughs match ponds for improving duck welfare. Appl. Anim. Behav. Sci. 2009;116:52–57.
- Barrett L.A., Maloney S.K., Blache D. Pekin ducks are motivated to access their nest site and exhibit a stress-induced hyperthermia when unable to do so. Animal. 2021;15
