One of the hands down coolest breeds! The Appenzeller Spitzhauben is medium-sized and a very active breed who lays a large egg for her size (medium sized egg) and LOTS of eggs, right around 180/yr! This breed will need periods of ranging in a yard or area, and while they are friendly, do not expect these girls to be lap chickens. Spitzhaubens are a cold hardy breed, and do lay through the winter months. With Dalmatian dots and large Mohawk crest she is always THE breed people ask about. They are NOT polish. The crest is VERY different from the crest of a Polish or French Hen. The crest stands erect and slightly forward rather than falling to the sides and back of the head. This beautiful breed is from Switzerland’s Appenzell district and is the national chicken of Switzerland. The name comes from the forward sweeping crest feathers that are reminiscent of the ceremonial hats, “spitzhauben,” worn by women of the region. The Appenzeller Spitzhauben was developed for egg production, but it is not yet an APA accepted breed in the US. For many years the breed never left Switzerland. It wasn't until the 1800s and early 1900's that any were seen outside of Switzerland. WWII almost wiped them out completely. In the late 1950s, Appenzeller Spitzhauben eggs were brought to America. The Roosters are sweet and can be stand-offish. NOTE: Chicks are a minimum of 1 week old - this breed is very sensitive as chicks so alot of care must be taken for survival the first few weeks.