Altsteirer
The Altsteirer is an historic breed known for its adaptability and strong foraging abilities.
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The Altsteirer has a unique appearance featuring a robust body and strikingly feathered legs. They typically have a calm and friendly temperament, making them suitable for backyard flocks. This breed is known for its excellent foraging skills and adaptability to various environments, which contributes to its appeal among poultry keepers.
History
The Altsteirer chicken breed originates from Austria and has been developed over centuries, primarily in the Styrian region. It was historically valued for both egg production and meat, and it played a significant role in local agriculture.
Care tips
Altsteirers are hardy and can thrive in diverse climates but appreciate shelter from extreme weather. They are active foragers and require adequate space to roam and scavenge. Regular monitoring for broodiness is advisable, as hens tend to be quite suitable for hatching eggs.
Fun facts
- Altsteirers are known for their remarkable foraging abilities.
- They can adapt well to both free-range and confined settings.
- This breed has remained largely unchanged for centuries.
- They are valued for both their egg production and meat quality.
What the Altsteirer is like to keep
The Altsteirer is an old breed from Styria in southeastern Austria. The name means "old Styrian." It was kept as a farm bird that could forage for much of its own food, lay a fair number of eggs and still put something on the table. It is rare outside Austria and Germany, and very rare in the United States.
The two best known colors are white and a wild-type color, often called wheaten or partridge in English sources. Many birds carry a small tuft of feathers at the back of the head, which helps tell them apart from other light farm breeds.
Day to day
- Light, active birds that forage well and do best with space.
- Alert and often flighty, especially when young.
- Good fliers, so a covered run or tall fence helps.
- Light colored eggs, generally white to cream.
Their background as farm foragers means they are happiest when they can range. In a small, bare run they can become restless. Give perches, scratch areas and space to keep them busy.
Climate and coop
Altsteirers come from a region with cold winters, and keepers generally describe them as hardy. They have a single comb, so in very cold, damp weather the comb can get frostbite. A dry, well-ventilated coop is more important than added heat. The cold climate breed list has other hardy options if you cannot find Altsteirers.
Who they suit
They suit keepers who want to help preserve a rare European breed and who have room for active birds. They are not a good fit for someone who wants a calm lap chicken or a guaranteed supply of eggs from a small coop.
Where to find them
In the US, finding Altsteirers is hard. Your best bet is rare breed groups and specialty breeders, and it may take time. Similar active European breeds that are easier to find include the Appenzeller.
Common questions about Altsteirers
Are Altsteirers good layers?
They are known as fair layers of light colored eggs, kept for practical farm use.
Are Altsteirers friendly?
They tend to be active and somewhat flighty rather than cuddly.
Where do Altsteirers come from?
Styria, a region of southeastern Austria.
