[victoria_plum]

I've had my three Silkies a week and a half.  I have heard of 'pecking order' and at first Betty seemed to be top dog.  Nessa is the smallest and frankly she doesn't give a stuff about being boss. But Fedorie has started trying to peck Betty occassionaly when they are out in the pen, they flap and square up to each other every now and then. Is this just them ascerting themselves and working out the pecking order?

I think because they are Silkies, and still getting their adult plumage, they often have little fluffy feathers hanging off, and I find them in the house.  I presume this is normal. 

Does anyone know if this is usual?

[bantam novice]

Hi there,
as a beginner myself I would say, from what I have read in this forum, that this is normal.  Just keep the purple spray ready in case you get any bleeding. 

[alancane]

I would agree with bantam novice.... just sorting out their pecking order. People say it can get quite nasty, so do get some purple spray just incase to disguise any cuts/pecks.

[victoria_plum]

That's a relief.

But what is purple spray?!

[alancane]

I havent had to use it yet, but I believe it's an antiseptic spray with is purple to disguise the red, which will attract the hens. If your hens see any cut/blood they will all want to peck at it. Just been searching and it's called gentian violet.

http://www.chicken-house.co.uk/acatalog/Gentian_Violet_Spray.html

You might have a local place that sells it. Hope this helps.