Purpose – TBN Ranch Chicken Keeping Resources

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.

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.

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Interesting Facts About Combs and Wattles

Why Do Chickens Have Combs & Wattles? What are They For?

Combs and wattles are fleshy protuberances located on chickens’ heads and necks. The comb is the larger, often brightly colored structure on top of the chicken’s head, while the wattle is a smaller, reddish piece of skin that hangs beneath the chicken’s chin.
Combs and wattles serve several important functions for chickens. Firstly, they play a role in regulating the bird’s body temperature. Chickens don’t sweat, so they rely on their combs and wattles to help dissipate heat from their bodies. The blood vessels in these structures expand and contract to help regulate the bird’s internal temperature.
Secondly, combs and wattles can also play a role in attracting mates. In many breeds of chickens, the size and color of a rooster’s comb is a sign of his health and vitality, making him more attractive to potential mates.
Lastly, combs and wattles can also be used to signal social status and dominance within a flock. In some breeds, chickens with larger and more ornate combs may be seen as more dominant and may be more likely to lead the flock or have access to the best food and resources.
While combs and wattles may seem like just an interesting physical characteristic of chickens, they actually serve important functions in regulating body temperature, attracting mates, and signaling social status within a flock.

Want to Know More?