Effective Chipmunk Control: Trapping and Habitat Modification

Trapping Is the Solution

Live‑trap chipmunks and euthanize if state law permits. Relocation is often illegal and cruel (see relocation.htm). Confirm evacuation by plugging the hole with newspaper; if undisturbed for 7 warm days, the burrow is empty.

What Doesn’t Work

• Repellents, mothballs, coyote urine, ultrasonics – limited to no effect.
• Poison – chipmunks hoard bait, creating secondary hazards.
• Cats – devastate songbirds; not recommended.

Habitat Modification

Eliminate food sources (bird seed, pet food) and reduce cover (brush piles, dense ground cover). Aggressive trapping with multiple traps yields faster results.