Last Updated on January 14, 2025 by Pauline G. Carter

The Appenzeller Spitzhauben Chicken breed is from Appenzeller, Switzerland, and is the national bird of this country. This chicken breed has two varieties – the Spitzhauben, which means “pointed bonnet,” and the Barthuhner, which means “bearded hen.”

Both are show breeds. Both varieties can decently lay small white eggs 5 times a week, and both have color variations of black, golden, and silver-spangled plumage. The Spitzhauben chicken breed has a V-comb, while the Barthuhner has a rose comb.

Both male and female Spitzhauben chickens have feather crests, while Barthuhner has no crest. Appenzeller Spitzhauben Chicken is light, with its hens averaging 1.6 kgs and roosters averaging 2 kgs.

Appenzeller Spitzhauben Chicken | Breed Profile

Origins and History

The Appenzeller Spitzhauben is indigenous to Switzerland, specifically the Appenzell canton. This breed’s name, “Spitzhauben,” refers to the pointed bonnet worn by the women of Appenzell, which mirrors the chicken’s unique pointed crest. Its history is somewhat murky, with the breed believed to have originated during the medieval period. The Spitzhauben is recognized for its remarkable survival skills, having thrived in the harsh, mountainous environments of Switzerland. This adaptability has ensured its survival and proliferation despite not being as widespread as other chicken breeds.

Characteristics

Appenzeller Spitzhauben Chickens have white skins and blue or slate legs. They are a beautiful breed because of their well-spread tail, full feathers, and hard and tight plumage. Their crest is tipped forward over their faces, and their well-rounded body is proportioned. They possess dark brown eyes and have large nostrils. This chicken breed has neither beards nor muffs. They have long and delicate wattles and have white and oval-shaped ear lobes.

This chicken breed has a powerful beak, and its nostrils are large and deep. The fleshy knob at the front of their beak is noticeable, too. Appenzeller Spitzhauben is lightweight. The roosters averagely weigh about 2 kg, while the hens weigh about 1.6 kg. With their beautiful looks, they can be used for show and ornamental purposes. As for their rarity, they are available from most breeders.

Behavior/ Temperament/ Use:

The Appenzeller Spitzhauben breed is suited for mountain life, for they are very much acquainted with climbing. This chicken breed may be quiet and friendly, but they do not like being confined. They are always active and love to roost in trees. They also tend to look after themselves when it comes to eating. So, they are an economical breed. They are not nervous or flighty. Their small wattles and combs keep them from frostbites.

Generally, this chicken breed’s temperament is friendly, calm, and docile. They do not like to be confined at all. This can cause them to be broody sometimes. When it comes to climate tolerance, they can live up to any weather. Their breed size is large, while their eggs and productivity are medium. Their varieties, which are primarily found in the UK and the USA, range from black, golden spangled, and silver strangled.

Husbandry Practices

The Appenzeller Spitzhauben’s hardiness makes it relatively easy to care for, provided their need for space and propensity to roam is respected. These chickens prefer outdoor living conditions where they can utilize their foraging skills. They are well-suited to colder climates, thanks to their Swiss heritage, but they also adapt well to warmer environments if provided with shade and water.

When it comes to housing, ensuring that the coop has enough vertical space for roosting high off the ground is essential. Because they tend to fly and roam, secure fencing—or a covered run—is necessary to keep them contained. Their diet is not particularly specialized; a standard balanced feed supplemented with access to greens, insects, and other forageable foods will keep them healthy and happy.

Conservation Status

The Appenzeller Spitzhauben is considered a breed of conservation interest. While not at immediate risk of extinction, its relatively limited distribution outside Switzerland and niche popularity among poultry enthusiasts place it under the “watch” category by conservation organizations. Efforts to preserve the breed focus on maintaining genetic diversity and promoting its unique qualities to a broader audience.

FAQ: Appenzeller Spitzhauben Chicken

What color eggs do Spitzhauben chickens lay?

Appenzeller Spitzhauben chickens lay white eggs. The eggs are of good size and quality, contributing to the breed’s appeal among poultry enthusiasts. While they may not be prolific layers, the unique aesthetic and hardiness of the Spitzhauben make their eggs a prized addition to any collection.

Are Appenzeller chickens friendly?

Yes, Appenzeller chickens, including the Spitzhauben variety, are known to be friendly towards humans. Their active and lively nature makes them enjoyable companions in a backyard setting. Although they cherish their independence and have a robust exploratory instinct, they can integrate well into diverse poultry communities and family environments.

Are Spitzhauben chickens rare?

Spitzhauben chickens are considered rare, especially outside their native Switzerland. While they have a dedicated following among poultry enthusiasts, their distribution is relatively limited. Efforts to preserve and promote the breed are crucial for ensuring its survival and increasing its presence in poultry communities worldwide.

Is the Appenzeller Spitzhauben APA?

As of my last update, the Appenzeller Spitzhauben is not recognized by the American Poultry Association (APA). The APA maintains strict standards for breed recognition, and while the Spitzhauben is celebrated for its unique characteristics and historical significance, it has yet to achieve official status within the APA’s breed registry.

What are the Pros and Cons of the Andalusian Chicken?

What we like:

• Economical. They tend to feed for themselves, especially when they are in the mountains.
• Roosting in trees. We can save space for other poultry breeds.
• No feathered legs. We can save time in cleaning them.
• It is a readily available breed and has a well-proportioned round body.
• Friendly, calm, active, and seldom broods.

What we don’t like:

• Since these chickens like to roost in trees, they can be lost or caught by hunters.

Conclusion

The Appenzeller Spitzhauben chicken is a breed of chicken originating in the canton of Appenzell in Switzerland. The breed is characterized by its V-shaped comb and wattles, both white. The Appenzeller Spitzhauben is a dual-purpose breed, which is bred for egg production and meat.