So here is the real truth and the actual facts about raising a flock
So to sum this up: You can see that raising chickens, all chickens when raised outdoors naturally are subject to Mother Nature & the perils of weather.
It's just that simple and it's a fact!
People that are new to poultry try to "fix" everything and it's understandable. What's my best advice: Do the best you can, and keep your chickens well-fed and safe in a proper coop.
So what do "eggperienced" poultry people do? They understand these facts and simply take care of small problems and injuries but replace chickens that become attacked by predators or severe illnesses.
Many new people that are starting their first flock will spend a fortune at the veterinarians if their chicken shows signs of illness. And it does not escape the vet's office that you will pay $$$ to save your pet!
Nearly 90% of ALL eggs hatched at hatcheries are carriers of MG and MS in some cases genetic defects - So FYI most chickens are carriers of potential diseases/defects from day ONE!
If your veterinarian was truthful: he would say that all 90% of chickens are carriers of Mycoplasma and many other types of bacteria. (most veterinarians do not know this fact!)
So he offers you pills, injections, and antibiotics (in some cases it will work) but the veterinarians will not offer you natural options but instead sell you expensive medications. Your vet will not ask you about your coop health and your poultry litter. Nor, if you free range your chickens, All of these are important for your chicken's health.
NEWSFLASH!!! In some cases, your chickens may have a genetic condition (read this!) but most veterinarians will not tell you about this fact, and instead sell you expensive medications, and immunizations! (Which will NOT solve the problem!)
You can be sure that your Grandparents did not spend $300 to cure a sick Chicken! They simply hatched more to replace the ones that are damaged or become ill.
People have changed in the last 60 years, but chickens are the same agricultural birds
So there you have my 2 cents! from someone that has raised many many thousands of chickens over the years.