This is what happens when a broody chicken isn't a good momma hen. She will peck the chicks, let other chickens attack them or roost in areas that aren't safe. This past spring when we let one of our hens hatch a clutch of eggs, she would roost on the ground where we couldn't reach her and I'm pretty sure rats/mice were eating their wings while they were sleeping. We lost three but were able to save sic by taking them away and rehabbing in the house till they were healthy enough to toss with our

How to Care for a Broody Hen and Her Chicks | Raising Chicks With Mother Hen | Backyard Poultry | Dr. ARSHAD