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.
What You Should Know:
High-Flyers: These birds can clear a six-foot fence with ease. They often prefer roosting in trees rather than inside a coop if given the choice.
Cold Weather Champs: They were bred for the Alps, so they handle winter like pros.
Not for Small Spaces: They don’t do well in cramped runs. They can get bored and flighty.
They tend to be a bit more “talkative”.
Non-Sitters: They rarely go broody, so don’t expect them to hatch their own eggs without an incubator.
TBN Ranch Chicken Keeping Resources 