Chipmunk Repellents
Chipmunks are small squirrel-like rodents that are approximately six inches long, have a three-inch tail, and weigh about one pound. They can do a lot of damage to a yard, a farm, or a home.
Chipmunks can burrow down deep underneath a structure or they can climb along the eaves of a home and find a way into the attic where they will chew at the wood until they have created a weakness in the structure. They nest and build homes anywhere they feel safe.
A chipmunk will
- Ruin a flower bed
- Chew on bulbs or seeds
- Feed on plants
- Dwell underneath of foundations
- Burrow down into yards creating holes
If you are experiencing a chipmunk issue, chipmunk repellents may be your best answer. Before you choose the right repellent, find out what they are getting into and what they are attracted to. Learning their patterns can help you determine what will be the best repellent to use.
Types of Repellents
Liquid Repellents – This type of repellent can only be used during warm weather, at least 40 degrees. Liquid spray is good for outdoor surfaces and can be applied directly to an object that the chipmunk may be eating on or invading. This includes flowerbeds, woodpiles, bird feeders, and roofing or gutters. Pour enough liquid repellent onto the surface so that it is completely soaked and the liquid is running off. It’s important that the liquid is re-applied after a heavy rainfall or after a damaged plant starts growing new growth.
Powdered Repellents – Powdered repellent is a good choice for indoor or outdoor use. Look for an area that chipmunks are traveling more frequently or where they may have a home. This may include pathways, brush piles, gardens, under the house or a barn, attics, and flower beds. Powder repellents need to be applied to level areas. You can use them at any temperature. Sprinkle the powder around the outside wall or area that they are digging. This repellent can be used in your attic too. Just place the powder around the outside wall so they cannot get in.
Electronic Repellents – If you prefer not to use liquid or powder, you may want to try electronic chipmunk repellents. This type of repellent works in a different manner. The chipmunk will be met with a burst of water if they walk in a certain direction. After a few trips on their normal path, they will learn that water will squirt them and they will stay away from the area. Bursts of water will not harm your flower beds, pathways, plants, or gardens but it will stop chipmunks from walking in that same path. You will need to initially set up the electronic repellent in a way that will target the chipmunk according to its routine.
You will need to take some added steps in order to get rid of the chipmunks so they don’t try to find an alternate route to their food and/or shelter. Also, pick up any dog or cat food after they are finished eating so the chipmunks don’t try to come over to the food and eat too. Chipmunks love bird feeders so place the feeders more than ten feet away from any buildings. Remember that chipmunks make their homes in piles of wood and mulch. Avoid placing these piles so close to your home.