A rooster is the symbol of Šentjernej, with a special meaning for the inhabitants of this part of the Dolenjska region since the times of Celts. 15 years ago the research of its characteristics began; with the help of experts a selection was made, and the new breed created. It was named after the rooster, not after the hen. Some interesting discoveries have been made.
Hens of the Šentjernej breed lay eggs with a very high level of choline, which is important for functioning of body cells as it inhibits the onset of dementia and Alzheimer's disease. These findings were confirmed by the analysis of eggs performed at the Chemistry Institute.
"It is the first breed in the world named after the rooster, and not after the hen. Our hens lay eggs we call golden eggs or "little cholines" with a high content of choline which prevents the onset of early dementia and Alzheimer's disease," Stane Bregar from the Gallus Bartolomaeus Association boasts.