Facts About Appenzeller Spitzhauben



Posted: Saturday, September 25, 2010

by Kor Rassad

What is an Appenzeller Spitzhauben anyway? For those in the know, it happens to be the national chicken of Switzerland. It is named after the pointed lacy hat worn by ladies in the Appenzeller region of Switzerland. And, it may very well be yours, if you are looking for a beautiful black and white speckled chicken that is fun to raise.

Appenzellers are distinctively beautiful. They have black and white speckled feathers that give them a festive look. Their feather crest also adds a bit of silliness to an otherwise pompous looking head. They like to roam around, and are intelligent, so they actually make quite good pets.

If you feel that you can give Appenzellers the freedom they need to roam and forage, then you may consider buying them to have as pets. They are quite intelligent, and enjoy picking insects out of all sorts of places when you allow them out in the yard. Baby chicks can be ordered from breeders to get you started with your own little flock. The online breeders provide space and shipping recommendations for the breed. Most are concerned that the chicks, or even unhatched eggs arrive safely to you.

There are plenty of advantages to having these chickens as pets. For one thing, they will lay eggs. They are great at producing medium to large sized white eggs. The average egg count per year is about 140 to 160 eggs. You will reap the benefits of feeding and caring for them by having fresh, organic eggs with healthy orange yolks. The darker yolk color results from feeding chickens well, and this means more nutrition for your family.

People who enjoy their Spitz say that each one has a unique personality. Part of this comes from their goofy crest of feathers, and the rest comes from their tendency to enjoy being held and stroked if you train them to like it. They are not easily friendly, but once accustomed to your touch, they will like being carted around like a family dog.

The Appenzellers are quiet, fly very well, and like to climb trees. They enjoy foraging for insects and will keep busy with that for a long time when there are plenty of insects around. Usually, these chickens stay cleaner than others. This fact is noted by owners who say that their smaller size helps them to avoid being dirty.

Because they fly so well, some owners report that all their Appenzellers left their coops in favor of roosting in nearby trees. Some flocks actually remained in the trees until the weather turned cold. The independent nature of these chickens is seen in this behavior, but most owners think it is part of what makes them fun.

Appenzeller Spitzhauben are probably one of the most distinctive looking chickens you can have as a pet. If you can put up with their tendencies to fly and climb trees, then you will enjoy their lovely speckled feathers. Just plan on putting up sturdy fencing if need be, and then have fun with these delightful chickens.

For more info about the Appenzeller Spitzhauben Chicken, visit http://www.chickencoopadvice.com/appenzeller-spitzhauben-chicken/
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Top-level comments on this article: (1 total)
» left by Jennifer Stewart
 1 year 228 days ago.
153 fans.
I'd love to see a photograph! Well, I thought the last type of chicken I read about sounded cute, but this one goes to the top of the list. A chicken that climbs trees! :)
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