how to get chipmunk out of house

3 min read 06-02-2025

Meta Description: Have a chipmunk infestation? This comprehensive guide provides humane and effective methods to remove chipmunks from your house, prevent future intrusions, and protect your property. Learn how to identify entry points, seal them, and deter these critters from returning! (158 characters)

Identifying the Chipmunk Problem

Before you start evicting your uninvited guest, it's crucial to confirm it's actually a chipmunk. Chipmunks are small, striped rodents with bushy tails. They often leave behind small droppings and may create nests in wall voids or attics. Mistaking them for other rodents like mice or squirrels will affect your removal strategy.

Signs of a Chipmunk in Your House:

Droppings: Small, dark droppings are a common sign.
Sounds: Scratching or scurrying noises, especially in walls or attics.
Sightings: Actual sightings of the chipmunk itself, though this can be tricky.
Damage: Chewed wires, damaged insulation, or holes in walls.

Humane Removal Methods:

Trapping is the most humane and effective way to remove a chipmunk from your home. Avoid using poisons, as these can harm other animals and create a larger problem.

Step-by-Step Trapping Guide:

Choose the right trap: Live traps designed for chipmunks are available at most hardware stores. Make sure the trap is large enough to comfortably hold a chipmunk.
Set the trap: Place the trap near where you've seen or heard the chipmunk. Bait it with nuts, seeds, or fruits—things chipmunks love.
Check the trap regularly: Check the trap frequently (at least once a day) to prevent the chipmunk from suffering.
Relocation: Once you've caught the chipmunk, relocate it at least 5 miles away from your home. This ensures it won't find its way back. Release it in a suitable habitat like a wooded area or park. Never release it near a neighbor's house.

Alternative Removal Methods:

One-Way Door: If trapping proves difficult, try installing a one-way door on the entry point. This allows the chipmunk to leave but prevents it from returning.
Professional Help: If you're unable to remove the chipmunk yourself, consider contacting a wildlife removal professional. They have the experience and tools to handle the situation safely and effectively.

Preventing Future Chipmunk Intrusions

Once the chipmunk is gone, take steps to prevent future infestations. This is crucial for long-term protection.

Sealing Entry Points:

Inspect the exterior: Thoroughly examine your home's exterior for any cracks, gaps, or holes where a chipmunk could enter. Pay close attention to areas around pipes, vents, and utility lines.
Seal all openings: Use steel wool, caulk, or expanding foam to seal any openings. Chipmunks are persistent, so make sure the seals are strong and durable.

Other Deterrents:

Remove food sources: Store food in airtight containers and clean up any spilled food or crumbs immediately. This eliminates the chipmunk's reason for entering your home.
Landscaping: Keep grass and vegetation trimmed away from the foundation of your house. This removes hiding places for chipmunks.
Repellents: While not always effective, some commercial chipmunk repellents may help deter them.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How do I know if I have more than one chipmunk?

A: Multiple droppings, sounds in different areas of your house, and repeated sightings suggest a larger infestation. If you suspect multiple chipmunks, you may need to set multiple traps.

Q: Are chipmunks dangerous?

A: While generally not aggressive, chipmunks can bite if they feel threatened. They can also carry diseases. Always wear gloves when handling traps or dealing with chipmunks directly.

Q: What should I do if a chipmunk bites me?

A: Wash the bite thoroughly with soap and water. Seek medical attention if you experience any signs of infection.

Q: My cat keeps trying to get to the chipmunk. How do I protect my pet?

A: Keep your pet away from the area you are trapping. Chipmunks can carry diseases that could harm your cat. Use caution to avoid injuries to both your pet and the chipmunk.

By following these steps, you can safely and humanely remove a chipmunk from your house and prevent future infestations. Remember, prevention is key! Regular home maintenance and vigilance are your best defenses against these persistent little creatures.