Hi bern,
There's a lot of different reasons for these actions but really when it happens we need to try and stop it, then understand it. Yes sounds like the parents wanted the chicks to leave in your case, "pure yellow with red eyes" Lutino well done.
Gordon.

Hi,

I have had this problem with plucking and someone suggested that more nesting material should be made available. It seemed to make a difference.
Cheers kali.