missing neck feathers

[---Danielle---]

I have a large mixed flock of hens, and recently I've noticed there are missing feathers on their necks right below their beaks. I have had feather picking in the flock but I don't think that's what this is because whenever they've had that before its red sore and typically bloody and not on their necks. It's mid February so I'm concerned about them. Anybody know what I should do or what's wrong?

 

[sourland]

Some flock mate/mates are sneakily feather plucking/grooming them. Generally it's the bird in the flock with the most perfect feathering.

 

[---Danielle---]

Is there any way to prevent them from doing that?