remove baby chick's from mom?

[drifter240z]

Hey all! So my girls decided to become broody!
She is sitting on 10 eggs, and 2 have hatched and a third one is on the way!

The mama has been good with the babies
(Both of my chickens are broody and booth act really well around the chicks) today when I went outside, I noticed that mama and the chick's were outside. This is the first time I've seen them leave the nest. Long story short, I couldn't find one of my babies! I searched for over an hour and finally found her dead :/
I'm pretty sure a rat may have gotten the baby.. I've caught multiple rats trying to steal food.

So my question is, should I just keep the babies inside? I made a box with food and water, and a red heat lamp for the baby tonight.

Your insight would be very great! Thank you

 

[Pork Pie]

If possible, I'd rat-proof the coop and leave chicks with momma. It will be better for both.

Ct

 

[drifter240z]

I could try to rat proof the coop, but I've tried in the past. I've personally caught 4 rats over a foot long in the coop.
Also, I already have the baby inside, would it be bad if I gave her back to mama tomorrow? I don't want her to die :\
Thanks again for the info!

 

[Pork Pie]

You could try, but make sure that you supervise because she may reject the chick.

Ct

 

[ShellyBear]

Try giving the chick back at night. Sneak her under momma with the others.