>>534931You absolutely need some kind of netting or coverage. I've worked on a farm and homesteaded for years when I had the property. Keep seedlings covered until they get established with cover cloth or plastic. I have lost dozens of flower bulbs over the years when I didn't take protective measures. Cover pots and plots with chicken wire, plastic, cover cloth, old sheets, whatever it takes. It won't necessarily look pretty, but your baby plants need a chance to get going with minimal pest and predator pressure.
The people who just throw seeds down and get results get extremely lucky or are growing with quality seeds in the exact right conditions for plants that like to be direct sown. And are taking care of pests and predators.
If you know specifically what type of animal is eating your plants, you can get predator urine as a deterrent or plant species that are deer-resistant, etc.