Get Rid of Chipmunks and Keep Them Out of Your Garden

Expert Tips to Control Chipmunks If you’re looking for methods for how to get rid of chipmunks, University of Missouri extension state specialist David Trinklein has three words to follow: Exclude, repel, and remove. “It’s demoralizing spending a lot of time, effort, and money on a garden only to have it destroyed by our four-legged friends,” David says. To exclude chipmunks, David mentions that a gardener can try burying plastic or metal that extends above and below the ground to serve as a barrier. He also says a key component of exclusion is eliminating habitat. Gardeners should get rid of wood piles, areas of long or overgrown grass, and other places chipmunks would go to hide. “If you remove natural habitat, chipmunks might not be so numerous to begin with,” he says.

These smells are unpleasant for chipmunks and can help deter them from approaching the area.

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Repelling Chipmunks

Repelling chipmunks is a crucial step in preventing them from taking over your garden or yard. By using the right smells and deterrents, you can keep these pesky critters at bay. Here are some effective ways to repel chipmunks:

Using cayenne pepper, mint, or coffee grounds to create a barrier around plants or areas you want to protect

Spraying fox or coyote urine around the perimeter of your garden or yard

Placing cotton balls soaked in hot pepper spray or cayenne pepper near entry points

Using commercial chipmunk repellents or granules

Additional Tips

In addition to repelling chipmunks, there are several other steps you can take to prevent them from taking over your garden or yard. Here are some additional tips:

Seal all entry points, including holes and gaps in fences, walls, and buildings

Remove food sources, such as bird feeders and pet food

Keep your yard clean and free of debris

Plant chipmunk-resistant plants, such as daffodils and hyacinths

Conclusion

By following these steps and using the right smells and deterrents, you can effectively repel chipmunks and prevent them from taking over your garden or yard.

Some species of chipmunks are known to be more efficient at storing food than others. The efficiency of chipmunk food storage is influenced by several factors, including the size of the burrow, the type of food stored, and the behavior of the chipmunk.

Factors Influencing Efficiency

Burrow Size

Larger burrows provide more space for storing food, but they also require more energy to maintain and may be more vulnerable to predators. Smaller burrows, on the other hand, are easier to maintain and less visible to predators, but they may not have enough space for storing large quantities of food. The optimal burrow size for food storage varies among species, but generally, it should be large enough to accommodate the chipmunk’s food storage needs. ### Type of Food Stored*

Type of Food Stored

Different types of food have different storage requirements. For example, nuts and seeds are high in calories and require more space to store than fruits and insects. Chipmunks that store high-calorie foods, such as nuts and seeds, may need to store more food to sustain themselves during the winter. Foods that are high in moisture, such as fruits, may require more space to store and may be more prone to spoilage. ### Chipmunk Behavior*

Chipmunk Behavior

Chipmunks that are more active and have a larger home range may need to store more food to sustain themselves during the winter. Chipmunks that are less active and have a smaller home range may be able to survive on less food.

The Benefits of Live Trapping

Live trapping is a humane and effective way to remove chipmunks from your yard without causing them harm. By using a live trap, you can safely capture the chipmunks and relocate them to a more suitable environment.

If you have a large garden, consider using a motion-activated sprinkler to deter chipmunks. If you have a small garden, consider using a physical barrier such as a fence or a mesh screen to keep chipmunks out.

Effective Chipmunk Deterrents for Gardeners**

As a gardener, you’re likely no stranger to the pesky chipmunk problem. These furry critters can cause significant damage to your garden, eating away at your prized plants and flowers. But before you resort to using repellents or calling in a professional, consider these effective deterrents to keep chipmunks at bay.

Live Traps: A Humane Solution**

One of the most effective ways to catch and remove chipmunks is by using live traps.

She is also a regular contributor to the National Gardening Association. She has written for several other publications including the New York Times, the Washington Post and the Chicago Tribune. She is a frequent guest on TV and radio shows, including the Today Show, Good Morning America, and NPR.

The Power of Gardening: How Nature Can Heal and Inspire

Gardening is often viewed as a hobby or a way to relax, but it has a profound impact on our physical and mental well-being. As Melinda Myers, a renowned gardening expert, notes, “Gardening is a powerful tool for healing and inspiration.” In this article, we will explore the many ways in which gardening can benefit our lives, from reducing stress and anxiety to promoting creativity and self-expression.

The Therapeutic Benefits of Gardening

Gardening has been shown to have a positive impact on our mental health, reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. The physical activity involved in gardening, such as digging and planting, can also help to reduce stress and improve mood.