I wasn't sure wether to post this here or under egg laying, as this behavior seems to coincide with my girls starting to lay about eight days ago. I have three golden comets and three tetra-tints. It started with one bird, now four of the six are missing their feathers on their backs just ahead of thier tail feathers. There is no sign of injury or any blood. Am I correct in thinking that they may hae been in the nesting boxes (I have three boxes for the six birds) and that another of the girls wanted to get in to use it? The root of the feather is still intact so I figure they will come back at molting time. The girls don't seem to be in any discomfort either. The eggs were fantastic by the way, and already have over twenty eggs!