[Intensive raising of Muscovy ducks]

Concerning the husbandry of Muscovy ducks in intensive systems there is an urgent need to find ways of substituting certain practices that are incompatible with animal welfare. This is a major problem to be solved in cooperation with producers and scientific institutions. The state veterinary officers of the Weser-Ems district consider in this respect the following key principles as essential: 1. Those husbandry systems which are only to be realized by means of the current practice of trimming the bird's beak and toes cannot be tolerated. The trimming of beak and toes must always remain strictly limited to the horny parts. In regard to the trimming of horny parts of the upper beak, techniques are to be examined such as guarantee the intended effect without traumatizing the Stratum germinativum and the dermal tissues (i.e. file or grind). 2. The keeping of ducks on loose were gratings as it is currently being practiced is to be substituted without delay. The alternative use of wooden or plastic gratings is to be made subject to conclusive investigations. Tests of new modern husbandry systems for Muscovies and their evaluation by the state veterinarian should take more consideration not only the latest ethological knowledge about these birds but also take a critical view on the question whether conditions of reduced lighting, high stocking density, forced separation of sexes, feeding of a single high calorie diet and other deficits can after all be regarded as appropriate for the needs of this species in accordance with section 2 Animal Welfare Act (FRG).