Appenzell Bearded Hens are a lightweight breed characterized by a ‘beard’ of feathers around their throat comb. Originating from the mountainous regions of Switzerland, it is very hardy in cold climates. The beard of feathers protects the wattle from the cold weather, and it has a small rose comb. The color variations available are black, blue, Laced and Black-Red.

It is a very active breed that is a good forager and is recommended for free range set ups. Appenzell Bearded Hens are not flighty birds so low level fencing is enough to contain them, not to be confused with other Appenzell breeds which do tend to be flighty. They are calm in temperament although the males can be aggressive during breeding season. The females can weigh up to 1.8 kg and the males 2.9 kg. The hens lay around 190 white eggs per year. This breed is considered to be rare.