Have a Chipmunk Problem? How to Get Rid of Chipmunks
- Identifying Chipmunk Burrows in Your Yard
- How Much Does it Cost to Get Rid of Chipmunks
More Chipmunk Articles
Let's face it, chipmunks can be sweet and charming; some may even go as far as using the word "adorable." Weighing in at a mere 4 oz. and being only 5 inches long, it's easy to see why they may be the most loveable out of the rodent family. Hallmark stripes and puffy cheeks do add to their charming personalities. It is almost unthinkable to associate such harsh terms as "destructive" and "nuisance." However, many who live with these burrowing sweeties taking up residence in their gardens and lawns will be the first to tell you that chipmunks don't actually live in trees.
Who Are These Guys Anyways?
Naturally scared by predators and loud noises, chipmunks know how to move extremely fast. It can be tricky to watch which nest entry point they dart into once they realize they've been discovered. They thrive near brush thickets and rocky locations. Architectural masters, these little diggers prefer to curl up between tree roots or under rocks. With a tunnel system capable of being 20 to 30 feet long, it is vital to investigate your chipmunk concerns as soon as you notice you are cohabitating.
How to Get Rid of Chipmunks - Chipmunk Removal Methods
Owl or Hawk Decoys
Neighborhoods home to feasting feathers often keep chipmunk populations at bay. If you don't have any feathered friends nearby, you could put a decoy up. This doesn't always work out great but it could be worth a try.
Poison Is a No-No
While it may be tempting for those who just discovered their heirloom perennials have been destroyed to resort to poison bait traps; this is a terrible idea. Neighborhood pets or wild animals could accidently be killed if they ingest a poisoned chipmunk. You don't want to unintentionally become the "neighborhood pet killer."
Chipmunk Repellants
Predator scents are another deterrent method that humane homeowners' regularly employ. You can try coyote or bobcat urine; however, be prepared to reapply after heavy rain or if you rely on your irrigation within the same vicinity.
Skip the Shooting Options
I know, they always make it look so simple on TV right?! While inviting your buddies over to have a backyard BB gun party sounds excellent at the time; think twice. Shooting guns of any sort in a residential setting is a recipe for disaster. Keep kids, neighbors and pets safe by choosing another alternative.
Trapping Chipmunks
This is a time consuming task at best that often doesn't yield complete results. Use peanut butter and seeds as your bait. Fruit and peanuts in the shell are other options. Place traps in high activity zones and check frequently. Leave traps in the shade so that animals are safe between your check ups. Set them free a minimum of 5 miles away so that they don't relocate to your property.
Hiring Professional Pest Control
This is by far the easiest, safest and most reliable way to free your home and garden from chipmunks. These highly trained professionals have all of the knowledge, training and necessary equipment to evict these rodents. Save yourself the time and energy of researching, shopping, applying/setting up and disposing of afterwards.