Chipmunks are small, striped rodents often mistaken for squirrels. Their reddish-brown bodies are adorned with distinctive dark and light stripes along their backs, varying in number depending on the species. The Eastern chipmunk typically has three dark stripes, while the Western chipmunk sports five. These petite creatures grow to be only 8-10 inches long and are known for their adaptability. While both species can hibernate, Western chipmunks are more likely to remain active throughout the year. Breeding occurs in the spring and summer, with gestation lasting about a month, resulting in litters of 2-8 young. Eastern chipmunks are more prone to having multiple litters per year, but both species are capable of producing several litters if conditions are favorable. But How Far Will Chipmunks Travel from their burrows? Let’s explore their biology and habits to find out.
Chipmunk Biology and Behavior
Chipmunks are primarily ground-dwelling animals, active during the day. They move about with caution and a tentative nature. Found across the lower 48 states of America, chipmunk populations are thriving, even more so with the expansion of suburban areas. Like many animals, chipmunks have adapted to living alongside humans in parks, wooded lots, and even our backyards. If there’s a consistent food source, expect chipmunks to move in as neighbors.
Their diet is incredibly diverse, including slugs, snails, insects, small birds, eggs, mice, seeds, fruits, vegetables, flower bulbs, and even pet food. Chipmunks appear to have an insatiable appetite and will hoard food whenever possible. Properties with pet food, bird feeders, nut trees, gardens, flowers, or abundant insects are prime targets for chipmunk activity.
While their initial appearance might be charming, chipmunk infestations can quickly escalate and become difficult to manage.
The Problems Chipmunks Can Cause
A seemingly harmless chipmunk foraging in your yard can quickly lead to a multitude of problems. The lone chipmunk can multiply, leading to an increase in population and behavioral issues. Here are some common problems associated with chipmunks:
- Garden Damage: Consumption of garden vegetables and fruits.
- Bird Feeder Raids: Stealing food from bird feeders.
- Property Damage: Chewing on cable lines, air conditioning pipes, and electrical wires.
Chipmunk burrow holes in a yard
- Structural Damage: Burrowing into the ground, leading to water undermining patio slabs, driveways, and foundation walls. This can cause water damage inside the home and cracked cement.
- Plant Damage: Eating or digging up flowers, bulbs, and other plants.
- Flea Infestations: Chipmunks can carry fleas, which can then infest pets and people.
- Disease Transmission: Increased risk of diseases such as plague, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, or Powassan virus.
- Water Damage: Tunneling into flower beds, retaining walls, and around trees, leading to excessive water accumulation and potential fungal growth or water rot.
- Termite Barrier Disruption: Burrows near the home can accelerate the breakdown of termite barriers.
- Snake Attraction: Chipmunks attract snakes, which prey on them.
- Vermin Attraction: Hoarded food attracts mice, voles, and other vermin.
Ineffective Chipmunk Control Methods
Several common methods are often ineffective in dealing with chipmunk infestations:
- Poison Baits: Chipmunks are picky eaters and typically don’t consume commercial rodent baits.
- Flooding Burrows: Pouring water or gasoline into burrows is ineffective as the burrows are extensive, and chipmunks will avoid treated areas. Gasoline can also sterilize the soil.
- Pets: Cats and dogs may occasionally catch a chipmunk, but more will quickly fill the void.
- Mothballs: Mothballs are designed for moths, not chipmunks, and have no repellent effect.
Effective Chipmunk Control Solutions
Ultrasonic Sound Repellers
One effective method is to use an ultrasonic sound repeller. These devices emit high-frequency sounds that deter small animals like chipmunks. Many models also feature audible predatory animal sounds, which can be activated as needed to further scare them away.
This short video shows how an Ultra Sound Repeller works:
Low Profile Sound Repellers
For discreet, long-term control, sonic sound ground stake repellers are a great option. These units emit vibrations and sound waves that deter chipmunks from entering and nesting in your yard. Deluxe models incorporate ultrasonic sound and can be used directly in active chipmunk tunnels to drive them away.
Deluxe Solar Powered Chipmunk Repeller
The Deluxe Chipmunk Repeller uses solar power to charge a battery and emits vibrations, ultrasonic sound, and LED lights to deter chipmunks. It is particularly effective for existing chipmunk populations.
This short video shows how a Ground Stake Repeller works:
Chipmunk Gas Sticks for Treating Burrows
Gas sticks release sulfur smoke into chipmunk burrows, either killing the nesting chipmunks or repelling them with the unpleasant smell. This method is most effective when all entry and exit holes are sealed.
The following video shows how to use gas sticks:
Live Trapping Chipmunks
Live trapping is a practical and humane method for controlling chipmunk populations.
This short video gives you a brief overview of Pecan Paste and why it’s so effective at luring nuisance wildlife to traps:
To effectively trap chipmunks, place the trap near their burrow or in areas where you’ve seen them active. Use bait such as mixed bird seed with trapper’s choice pecan paste.
Best Chipmunk Live Traps
For a durable and reliable trap, the LT5518 is a commercial-grade option. The LT5518RD features a rear sliding door for easy baiting and animal release.
Low Cost Chipmunk Live Trap
The 5X5X16 Green Live Trap is an affordable option for smaller chipmunk problems.
How to Keep Chipmunks Away
If the chipmunks are not nesting on your property, you can use a repellent like Pest Away to deter them. Pest Away is made with natural organic essential oils that make treated areas unpleasant for chipmunks.
The following short video gives a quick summary of how Pest Away works:
How Far Will Chipmunks Travel From Their Burrows?
So, how far will chipmunks travel? While chipmunks are territorial, their range is relatively small. Chipmunks typically travel within a radius of about one-third of an acre from their burrow, or roughly 130 feet. This area provides them with sufficient food and resources. However, young chipmunks may travel further when establishing their own territories, and chipmunks in search of mates may also extend their range temporarily.
Conclusion
Managing a chipmunk problem requires understanding their behavior, employing effective control methods, and preventing future infestations. Whether through repellents, traps, or habitat modification, there are various ways to coexist with these creatures or humanely manage their presence. And remember, understanding how far will chipmunks travel is key to implementing effective control measures.
For further assistance, contact a pest control professional.
