Normal rooster behavior?

[Stacy35]

My Silkie rooster, who is just over 3 months old is occasionally plucking some hens tail feathers out! I was unaware I had a rooster and am new to even having hens. I just want to know if this is normal at this age (like the occasional pecking) or if this is more of a aggressive behavior? He can be super protective at times, but can also be somewhat nice. Thanks!

 

[DobieLover]

My Silkie rooster, who is just over 3 months old is occasionally plucking some hens tail feathers out! I was unaware I had a rooster and am new to even having hens. I just want to know if this is normal at this age (like the occasional pecking) or if this is more of a aggressive behavior? He can be super protective at times, but can also be somewhat nice. Thanks!

Is this happening as the pullets are trying to run away? Cockerels are always ready to mate before the pullets are and feathers get yanked out as the pullets struggle to get away.
If he's just going up and yanking out a tail feather, that is abnormal.
What are you feeding the flock?

 

[Stacy35]

He chases them around and pecks at them and sometimes manages to pluck a feather out while they try to run away. I have several that are only around 2 months old so I have everyone on chicken starter feed. Figure I would add more of a variety once everyone is a bit older.

 

[Stacy35]

I usually just see the end of the fight because they are so loud that I realize it’s going on. Hopefully I can see the whole thing once to see if he is literally just running up to them to pluck it out.