Our Heritage
Welcome to Appenzeller UK, the UK’s number one breeders of the Silver Spangled Appenzeller Spitzhauben chicken. Based at our smallholding in the heart of the English countryside, we are committed to the preservation and promotion of Switzerland’s national chicken.
Originally developed in the alpine monasteries of the Appenzell region, the Spitzhauben—meaning “pointed bonnet”—is a breed defined by its resilience, its striking “Dalmatian” plumage, and its extraordinary forward-pointing crest.
Our Mission at Appenzeller UK
As premiere breeders our mission is to provide British keepers with high-health, breed-standard poultry that thrives in the UK climate. We don’t just sell birds, we manage a lineage. Our Silver Spangled cockerels and hens are selected for their vitality and the classic high-contrast spangling that makes this breed a masterpiece of the garden.
Why Choose Our Chickens?
The Appenzeller is not your average garden hen. They are:
- Masters of Foraging: Highly active and alert, they are the ideal choice for free-range setups.
- Winter Resilient: Their small V-combs make them uniquely resistant to frostbite, a nod to their origins in the Swiss Alps.
- Excellent Layers: Known for providing a consistent supply of medium white eggs throughout the year.
A Note on Bio-Security & Welfare
At Appenzeller UK, the welfare of our birds is paramount. We operate a strictly monitored holding under DEFRA and APHA guidelines, ensuring that every bird leaving our smallholding is healthy, robust, and ready for their new home. Whether you are a seasoned heritage breeder or a first-time keeper looking for something truly unique, we are here to support your journey with this incredible breed.
