Why is this happening?

[Jkslb08]

So this is completely to do with chicken behavior and none to do with egg-laying...almost. Wilma and Pebbles are best buddies in our flock. Both are around 28 weeks old. Wilma started to lay about four weeks ago and around this time a small bare patch started to develop under Pebbles' beak. Well, the bare patch is bigger than ever and yesterday I see Wilma picking off the feathers on Pebbles! Why would she do this and how can we get this to stop?

Any and all advice would help!

 

[Backyard Hencam]

My hens groom each other, especially under their beaks. Hopefully, your hen won't cause bleeding because that is a whole other issue. I wouldn't worry unless blood is drawn. Good luck!