Redcaps can be differentiated from similar looking breeds, especially the more popular Hamburgs, by their red earlobes and larger comb.

[3] The breed appears in a single variety of plumage, with various dark hues of red, brown and black.

[4] Derbyshire Redcaps are a hardy, active breed of chicken that does well in free range conditions.

They are well suited for dual-purpose farm flocks, being used for both meat and egg production in addition to their ornamental qualities.

[5] The exact breeds that contributed to the creation of the Redcap are unknown, but Golden Spangled Hamburgs, Dorkings, Old English Pheasant Fowl and Black-Breasted Red Games may have been involved.