How to Get Rid of Chipmunks Humanely
Identification and Signs of Chipmunk Infestation
Chipmunks are small rodents with distinctive brown fur, white stripes, and bushy cheeks. They are known for their quick movements and high-pitched tails. Chipmunks typically build tunnels that are 2-3 inches wide and flush with the ground, often hidden under cover. They may also enter homes through holes in foundations or overhanging branches.
Humane Chipmunk Removal Methods
1. Build Barriers
To prevent chipmunks from entering your yard or home, install barriers made of 1/4-inch hardware cloth around the foundation, sidewalks, patios, and gardens. Bury the barriers L-shaped and cover them with soil to discourage digging.
2. Use Repelling Scents
Chipmunks dislike certain scents, including peppermint, citrus, cinnamon, eucalyptus, garlic, and cayenne pepper. Apply these scents around your yard or use a homemade repellent made with Lysol, Epsom salt, and water.
3. Trap and Release
Trapping and relocating chipmunks is an ethical way to remove them. Use small traps with wire mesh and place them in areas of chipmunk activity. Bait the traps with peanut butter or other treats. Relocate the chipmunks at least 5 miles away from your home.
4. Plant Aversive Flowers
Certain flowers, such as daffodils, allium, marigolds, lavender, and sage, are unappealing to chipmunks. Plant these flowers in your yard to deter them.
5. Protect Bird Feeders
Chipmunks are attracted to birdseed. Keep them away from feeders by cleaning up spilled seeds, choosing less attractive seeds like thistle, and placing feeders far from structures.
6. Clean the Yard
Eliminate potential food sources and hiding places for chipmunks by removing wood and rock piles, trimming back plantings, and keeping pet food and birdseed in rodent-proof containers.
Preventing Chipmunk Damage
1. Seal Entry Points
Inspect your home for any holes or cracks that chipmunks could use to enter. Seal these openings with caulk or expanding foam.
2. Protect Flower Bulbs
Plant bulbs in bulb cages or beneath a layer of hardware cloth to prevent chipmunks from digging them up.
3. Keep Gardens Clean
Remove weeds, debris, and spilled seeds from your garden to reduce food sources for chipmunks.
4. Protect Trees and Shrubs
Trim tree branches away from your home and keep shrubs well-maintained to prevent chipmunks from using them as hiding places.
5. Avoid Leaving Food Outdoors
Never leave pet food or birdseed outdoors overnight. Store these items in rodent-proof containers.
Chipmunk Biology and Behavior
Chipmunks are territorial animals that typically live in small groups. They are omnivorous and feed on seeds, nuts, insects, and fruits. Chipmunks hibernate during the winter months and emerge in early spring.
Diseases Transmitted by Chipmunks
Chipmunks can carry various diseases, including plague, rabies, and tularemia. It is important to avoid contact with chipmunks and to keep your pets vaccinated.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Do chipmunks carry diseases? Yes, chipmunks can carry several diseases, including plague, Colorado tick fever, rabies, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.
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Do chipmunks bite? Chipmunks are not aggressive toward humans but are capable of biting if they feel threatened.
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Can cats catch or kill chipmunks? Yes, cats are natural predators of chipmunks and can help to minimize chipmunk populations.
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How do you spot chipmunk tunnels? Chipmunk tunnels are typically hidden under cover and have small entrances. Look for disturbed soil around wood piles, brush, or other hiding places.
