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Appenzeller Spitzhauben, Breed Profile

Origin: Switzerland
Purpose: Ornamental / Egg Production
Egg Color: White
Egg Size: Medium
Rate of Lay: 150-180 eggs per year
Temperament: Active, alert, independent, flighty
Hardiness: Very cold hardy, and heat tolerant
The “Mohawk” Crest
Unlike the Polish chicken, whose crest is often a round “pom-pom” that obscures their vision, the Spitzhauben has a vertical, forward-leaning crest. This gives them a sleek, aerodynamic look and, more importantly, allows them to actually see predators coming.
Plumage
The most common and beloved variety is the Silver Spangled, which features crisp white feathers tipped with black teardrops. They also come in Gold Spangled and solid Black, though these are rarer in the US.
V-Shaped Comb
Keeping with their unique look, they sport a small, bright red “V” or “devil” comb, which is less prone to frostbite than large single combs.

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Andalusian Breed Characteristics

The Andalusian chicken originated in the Andalusia region of Spain and is one of the classic Mediterranean breeds. It is best known for its striking blue plumage and elegant, upright carriage.
In appearance, Andalusians have slate-blue feathers with darker lacing, though color can vary. When bred, blue birds typically produce a mix of blue, black, and splash offspring. They have large single combs and bright red wattles, slate-blue legs, a slim Mediterranean body type, and reddish-bay eyes.
They are a medium-sized breed.
Roosters generally weigh about 6 to 7 pounds, while hens weigh around 4.5 to 5.5 pounds.
Andalusians are good layers of white eggs, producing roughly 160 to 200 eggs per year. They are not known for broodiness, so hens rarely sit on eggs.
In temperament, they are alert, active, and somewhat flighty. They tend to be more independent than cuddly and are not usually considered docile pets, though they are typically not aggressive.
The breed is well suited to warm climates and tolerates heat very well. Because of their large combs, they are less cold-hardy and can be prone to frostbite in freezing conditions unless protected.
They are excellent foragers and thrive when given space to roam. Dry conditions suit them best.

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Ancona Breed Characteristics


Primary purpose: Egg laying
Eggs: White; prolific (often 4–6/week)
Size: Medium
Rooster : 6 lb (2.7 kg)
Hen : 4–4.5 lb (2–2.5 kg)
Plumage: Black with white mottling (white-tipped feathers increase with age)
Comb: Single or rose (both accepted)
Legs & skin: Yellow (often dark-mottled legs)
Earlobes: White to cream
Temperament: Alert, active, independent; not typically cuddly
Foraging: Excellent; thrives free-ranging
Broodiness: Rare
Hardiness: Robust and adaptable; single combs can be frost sensitive
Noise level: Moderate

Temperament & Behavior

Active & alert: Anconas are lively, energetic birds that love to forage and explore.
Flighty Nature: They’re good flyers and can easily fly fences if not confined.
Space needs: Prefer plenty of space and freedom to range.

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