Chicken Breed History:

Originated from Switzerland. Large fowl are found but bantams were not in existence until recently in Germany where they are working on downsizing the Spitzhauben breed. The breed was named after the ladies' lace bonnets of Appenzellerland. The word "spitzhauben" means pointed bonnet. In the 1950's, Dr Mc Graw imported hatching eggs from Switzerland into the USA and kept the flock intact until his death. You can be certain that all of the Spitzhaubens here in the United States can be traced back to his stock. There are a few dedicated breeders here in the United States, so the breed is slowly making a comeback.

Chicken Breed Comments / Experience:

Well proportioned round body, crest must be tipped forward over face. V comb and should not have any side sprigs. Large nostrils. Eyes are dark brown. No beards or muffs, unlike the Brabanter. Skin is white and legs must be blue or slate in color. Not flighty or nervous like Leghorns. Friendly and quiet. Can stand confinement in coop and run enclosures but not in cages unless they are chicks or recovering from illness. Great active forager and excellent fliers. Good egg to feed ratio. Good layer of eggs, with production roughly between 140 to 160 white eggs per year. With patience and time, Appenzeller Speizhaubens can become very friendly and unafraid of human touch.