Appenzeller spitzhauben chicken

The main distinguishing feature of the Appenzeller is its forward-pointing feather crest. It also has a V-shaped comb instead of the normal chicken comb. The Appenzeller’s plumage ranges from black, white, golden spangled to silver spangled.

The Appenzeller is perfectly suited to its habitat in the alpine foothills of northeast Switzerland. They are excellent climbers on rocky terrain and their ability to fl y enables them to roost in trees. Other adaptations include the smaller wattles and comb (V-shaped) to prevent frostbite.

In the 20th century, the Swiss canton of Appenzell was the last region in which the chicken breed survived. It was thus named after the region.