something eating my chickens

[Tesumph]

I know relocating sounds like the humane option but it’s really quite cruel. Being dropped in unfamiliar territory is more often than not a slow and terrifying death sentence for animals.

 

[Red84]

I haven't been a poultry keeper for very long but I know my way around some predators. Sounds like a raccoon although they seem to like to tear the head off of things, along with eating entrails. Raccoons typically aren't big on meat baits (living meat like your chickens is different) when it is hot out. When it is cold, completely different story. Fish, chicken, etc. spoils quickly and it turns into more of a possum bait then. This time of year I use a little dry dog food along with something sweet (marshmallows, molasses, etc). I also use rendered fish oil, that way if a mouse or something makes off with the bait, there is still something there to entice them. I caught a raccoon on fish oil two nights ago trying to get into a coop. I feel as though some raccoons have had negative experiences with live traps, so I ALWAYS have a secondary trap, such as a dog-proof trap nearby. Gang setting traps i.e. multiple traps set in the same area at the same time is a must with raccoons too. Try different baits in the traps too.

Also definitely check the laws in Michigan for moving animals such as raccoons, skunks, fox, etc. They are carriers of rabies and I think the law used to state you could not transport over county lines or something like that. Don't quote me on that though.

 

[Studius Eggus]

Are the chickens whole otherwise? That rules out anything canine or feline.
Have you looked for footprints?