I have noticed this on a few of mine as well. I think there is a little pecking going on but I have also seen them putting their heads through the gaps in the chicken wire fence to scratch in that dirt. I think they are rubbing some neck and head feathers off too. Just another idea for you!
Our white Leghorn laid her (and our) first egg on Friday. She followed it up with one on Saturday and Sunday! She is one of the youngest and smallest in our flock. Whitey- 3. Everybody else- 0.
I have noticed some of my girls sitting differently lately- tail feathers held high rather than down in the dirt/hay. Is this a "squat" or are they hot and trying to cool off?
I'm in Waco. Have 10 birds in the backyard coop. 3 RIR. 1 Australorp. 1 White leghorn. 1 Easter Egger/Ameraucana. 1 Golden Sex Link. 1 Dominique. 1 Ancona and 1 Moddled Houdan. We are hoping for eggs soon! All are 18-20 weeks.