Newbie questions re: pecking order & moulting

[2DogsFarm]

I think my pullets have hit adolescence, their ugly teen years

Question the First:
They are - for lack of a better description - "roostering" at each other.
Hackles up, wings raised, chest-bumping.
So far no actual pecking, just posturing.
Is this normal for hens?

My largest Delaware is the obvious #1 - noone threatens her.
But 3 of the remaining 4 - another Delaware and 2 Black Stars - seem to be jockeying for 2nd In Command.

My littlest hen - the Houdan - just seems to keep out of everyone's way. She was pecked bald on the front of her neck when I got them, but is regrowing feathers there.

Question the Second:
Lately I am seeing a lot of loose feathers & some down in the coop. Noone looks balding or has any bare spots (except Ms Houdan and hers are getting smaller).
They are almost 3mos old now.
Do chickens moult this young?
(I've read some posts about Spring Moult)

Sigh - what's next?
Sneaking smokes in the coop?
Teeny tattooos and piercings?

 

[silkiechicken]

1. Yep, 100% normal.

2. They are probably going though a teen moult and are changing into their adult feathers, nothing to worry about.

 

[LizzyJo]

Sigh - what's next?
Sneaking smokes in the coop?
Teeny tattooos and piercings?

I really hate it when they start insisting on those tiny Doc Martins.​

 

[2DogsFarm]

Quote:

silkiechicken: Thanks - so they are just growing up - that's a relief