A Serendipitous Surprise: Welcoming Appenzeller Spitzhaubens Kramer and Cosmo to the Flock
My Unexpected Discovery: Kramer and Cosmo
It all started with a simple order. I was eagerly awaiting Silver Lakenvelder eggs from a well-known breeder in Texas. When the eggs arrived, they were perfectly packed—just as expected. Breeders often include a few extra eggs in case some don’t hatch, so when I found four additional eggs in my shipment, I didn’t think much of it. Everything went smoothly, and six healthy chicks emerged from the eggs during lockdown. I gave two chicks to a friend and kept the remaining four.
As the chicks grew, I noticed that two of them looked slightly different from the others. At around two weeks old, these two began developing crests on their heads, something Silver Lakenvelders aren’t known for. Curious and a bit puzzled, I reached out to the breeder. At first, they thought I might have mixed up the eggs, but then they realized that they had included four Appenzeller Spitzhauben eggs in my order—without telling me!
Initially, I wasn’t planning on keeping these surprise chicks, but as they grew, I couldn’t help but fall in love with their unique personalities and striking appearance. I ended up with one pullet and one cockerel, who I named Cosmo and Kramer, respectively. What started as an unexpected twist turned into a delightful addition to my flock.
The Appenzeller Spitzhauben: A Breed Like No Other
The Appenzeller Spitzhauben is a rare and unique breed of chicken originating from the mountainous region of Appenzell in Switzerland. Known for their distinctive "spitzhauben" or "pointed bonnet" crest, which resembles a hat, these birds are not just a visual delight but also carry a rich history and a set of fascinating characteristics.
Appearance and Characteristics
One of the most striking features of the Appenzeller Spitzhauben is its forward-curving crest, giving the breed its name. This crest, combined with a V-shaped comb and wattles, creates a truly unique and somewhat regal look. They have tight, glossy feathers that lie close to the body, making them more weather-resistant—an important trait for a bird that hails from the Swiss Alps.
Appenzeller Spitzhaubens are lightweight and active birds, with hens typically weighing around 3.5 pounds and roosters around 4.5 pounds. Their bodies are sleek and well-proportioned, with strong, muscular legs that are ideal for foraging. They come in a variety of colors, but the most popular and recognized are the Silver Spangled, Golden Spangled, and Black varieties.
Personality and Temperament
These birds are known for their lively and curious nature. Appenzeller Spitzhaubens are excellent foragers, always on the move, and they prefer to free-range rather than being confined. They are known to be quite independent, often roosting in trees if given the opportunity. Despite their independence, they can be friendly and are known to be good with humans, especially if handled regularly from a young age.
However, their active nature means they can be a bit flighty. They aren’t the type to sit on your lap for long, but they’ll happily follow you around the yard, always keeping an eye out for the next interesting thing to explore.
Egg Production and Broodiness
Appenzeller Spitzhaubens are decent layers, producing a good number of small to medium-sized white eggs throughout the year. They are not particularly prone to broodiness, which can be a plus if you’re more interested in egg production than in hatching chicks.
Hardiness and Adaptability
Given their origins in the Swiss Alps, these birds are incredibly hardy and can withstand cold temperatures quite well. They are also good at avoiding predators, thanks to their alert and active nature. However, their light build means they do best in environments where they can roam and forage rather than in confined spaces.
Why I’m Glad I Kept Kramer and Cosmo
Choosing to keep Kramer and Cosmo turned out to be a fantastic decision. Not only have they added a new dynamic to my flock with their lively personalities, but they’ve also become a talking point for anyone who visits. Their striking appearance and energetic nature are a constant source of entertainment, and they’ve seamlessly integrated into my little chicken community.
In retrospect, the surprise addition of these Appenzeller Spitzhaubens to my flock feels like a stroke of good fortune. They may not have been the Silver Lakenvelders I originally ordered, but they’ve brought their own unique charm and energy to my backyard, proving that sometimes the best things in life are the unexpected ones.
