PLEASE HELP! Hens hurting other hens

[Katekozak]

I am new to raising backyard chickens...
I got all six of my hens (no rooster) at the same time and at this time they are approx 18.5 weeks old. They have grown up together, consistently lived together, and matured together. They have always gotten along together very well with no issues until recently. Three of my hens (poss 4) have been laying for about a week and a half. Since then it seems as though the laying hens have been particularly aggressive. I first noticed it when I would go into their pen to feed them. They would jump and "bite" my hands hard to see if I was carrying treats. Now its starting to be directed towards the other hens. The last few days I've noticed that the laying hens will force the other hens away when I bring fresh veggies. In the last day or so one has started to bite other hens. Today I saw her bite the earlobe of another hen so hard the poor thing was screaming and my aggressive hen would let go. Her earlobe is now red and raw. I don't know if it makes a difference but I notice that same hen is pretty restless. She is always the first one to the gate of the pen when I walk in and she remains outside the coop alone for a full half hour after the other have gone in. Am I doing something wrong? I know this is a pivotal developmental stage so I'm hoping this is temporary. Please throw all your chicken knowledge and advice at me!

 

[sourland]

It's all about the hormones. Generally once they are further into their laying cycle they tend to calm down. If the aggression continues provide multiple feed and water stations so that all birds get adequate food and water.

 

[ChickNanny13]

You could also separate the "aggressive" one into a wire cage with food & water, put the cage in the coop. Time out for a few days.

 

[Katekozak]

You could also separate the "aggressive" one into a wire cage with food & water, put the cage in the coop. Time out for a few days.

Thanks! Is it to the point they should be separated? Everything I've read states to not intervene until absolutely necessary. She hasn't drawn blood yet but I'm getting concerned. Primarily I wasn't sure if this was happening because she just started laying and it's a temporary thing or if I should expect this to continue indefinitely.

 

[Katekozak]

It's all about the hormones. Generally once they are further into their laying cycle they tend to calm down. If the aggression continues provide multiple feed and water stations so that all birds get adequate food and water.

I certainly hope this is temporary! I've read that chickens can be prejudice against others of a different look or color. The hen being attacked is the only black one we have. Because of that I'm nervous that this will be a constant struggle and my poor hen sounded so pained

 

[Folly's place]

Welcome!
Yes, hormones are raging, and the pullets are acting out, or at least one of them is not behaving well.
How much space do they have? Coop dimensions, run dimensions, and diet all matter. Hiding places available, and at least two feeders and waterers, in separate areas, so everyone can eat and drink without issues.
If you have one bully, separate her out of sight for a week or two, and see if it helps.
What breeds are your pullets? Some are just nicer than others.
Mary

 

[Folly's place]

There's no way any of these girls should be nipping you for treats! It's rude and obnoxious behavior, and you can stop it. No hand feeding, and 'peck' the offender, or do something sharp back, so it's unpleasant for the nasty bird.
Do you actually have a cockerel? Pictures!
Mary

 

[aart]

How much space do they have? Coop dimensions, run dimensions, and diet all matter.

Ditto Dat^^^