Appenzeller

Good with most

This breed gets along well with most other breeds, but some gentler breeds may not be compatible with hybrids or more aggressive types. For more details, refer to the full breed guide.

Aloof But Friendly

This breed is naturally curious and friendly, but they can come across as a bit aloof since they don’t enjoy being handled too much. They’re more self-sufficient and prefer to go about their own business, happily "chickening" around on their own.

200-250 Small/Medium White PA

This breed will lay up to 250 small to medium white coloured eggs per year, they are not known for being broody.

Character

The Appenzeller is a charming and unique chicken breed, known for its striking appearance with a funky crested "hairstyle" and a wonderful personality. They have a strong, confident nature, yet are gentle and friendly. While they may not be the type to cuddle up on your lap, they can become calm and hand-tame with patience, once they trust you. Although they can be a bit flighty if startled, they’re otherwise quite resilient and hardy, even in winter. As a purebred, they’re also excellent layers. All in all, they make a fantastic choice for first-time chicken keepers.

Suitability

These delightful mid-sized birds are perfect for a backyard or smaller setup since they don’t require a lot of space. However, they can get bored in a small run for extended periods, so they’ll need daily foraging time and plenty of enrichment in their enclosure. Being active and intelligent, they may develop destructive behaviors like feather pecking if confined for too long. Naturally curious and friendly, they prefer to be kept in pairs or with company, and they get along well in mixed flocks with hybrids or smaller bantams. They enjoy perching and roosting, so a home with open areas for exploration will keep them happy. Their inquisitive nature means they’ll likely follow you around, making them a great garden companion and an all-around charming little chicken. They do well in a house with a ladder or ramp and enjoy roosting at night.

History

In the 1950s, when the Appenzeller breed was on the brink of extinction, it was German breeder Kurt Fischer who played a key role in preserving the breed. It wasn’t until the early 1970s that the breed was introduced to England, after being originally sourced in Switzerland by Mrs. Pamela Jackson, who imported a significant number of birds in 1972. The breed gets its name from its distinctive crest, which should always be medium-sized and point forward. The term "Spitzhauben" translates to "pointed bonnet." Known for being good layers, Appenzellers can produce up to 250 small to medium white eggs per year, and they typically have a lifespan of around 8 years.