Are you tired of chipmunks digging under your patio and causing damage? Do you want to learn how to get rid of chipmunks under your patio safely and humanely?
If so, this guide is for you. We will explore various methods to remove chipmunks from under your patio and prevent them from causing further damage.
What are Chipmunks?
Chipmunks are small, striped rodents that belong to the Sciuridae family, along with squirrels. They have distinctive stripes and bushy tails and are native to North America and Asia.
Chipmunks live mainly on the ground and can be found in forests, grasslands, and even urban areas.
They eat a mix of nuts, seeds, fruits, insects, and small animals, using their cheek pouches to store and carry food to their burrows. Chipmunks are mostly loners, active during the day as they search for food and maintain their homes.
These creatures are quick and nimble, which helps them avoid predators like hawks, snakes, and foxes. They’re also known for their loud chirping, a way they communicate with each other.
Why Do Chipmunks Live Under Patio?
Chipmunks may choose to live under your patio for these reasons. Firstly, patios shelter them from harsh elements, while offering a safe and secure environment for chipmunks to nest and raise their young.
The space under a patio is also warm and dry, making it an attractive option for these rodents. Also, patios provide chipmunks with easy access to food sources.
Chipmunks are omnivorous and will eat foods like nuts, seeds, fruits, insects, and plants. If your patio is near a garden or bird feeder, chipmunks may be drawn to the area in search of food.
Furthermore, patios offer protection from predators. Chipmunks are preyed upon by animals, like hawks, snakes, and foxes. The enclosed space under a patio provides chipmunks with a haven from these predators.
Signs That A Chipmunk Is Under My Patio
Common signs that a chipmunk is living under your patio:
- Chipmunk Sightings: If you see chipmunks near your patio, especially during the day, they might be living underneath it.
- Burrows or Holes: Check for small burrows or holes dug around your patio’s edges, as chipmunks use these to get to their nests.
- Chirping or Rustling Sounds: Hearing chirping or rustling sounds under your patio could mean chipmunks are nesting there.
- Damage: Look to see if your plants, flowers, or property are damaged as chipmunks can dig up bulbs, eat plants, or chew on wood or wires. If you notice any of these signs, chipmunks are likely living under your patio.
Read also:Â Siberian Chipmunk: Identification & Behaviour
What Do Chipmunks Like to Eat?
How To Get Rid Of Chipmunks Under Your Patio
To get rid of chipmunks under your patio, you can try these methods:
- Remove Food Sources: Chipmunks like food, so get rid of things like bird feeders and fallen fruits or nuts if you want to keep them away.
- Seal Off Access Points: Seal any gaps or holes around your patio to stop chipmunks from getting in or making nests there.
- Use Humane Traps: Set up humane traps to catch chipmunks and then release them away from your property.
- Install Deterrents: Use motion-activated deterrents like sprinklers or ultrasonic devices to scare chipmunks away from your patio.
- Apply Natural Repellents: Sprinkle natural repellents like predator urine or peppermint oil around the perimeter of your patio to discourage chipmunks from nesting there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What Do Chipmunks Hate the Most?
A: It’s hard to say exactly what chipmunks hate the most because each one might have different dislikes. Generally, they’re put off by strong smells and tastes. Some things they don’t like are peppermint, garlic, predator urine, ammonia, and spicy scents. You can use these to keep chipmunks away from your patio.
Q: Will garlic powder get rid of chipmunks?
A: There’s no proof that garlic powder can get rid of chipmunks although some people believe the strong smell might make chipmunks go away, but it’s not clear if this really works. It’s better to use preventive methods like blocking their entry points, getting rid of food sources, and using traps that don’t harm them if you have chipmunks causing issues.
Q: Can chipmunks bite?
A: Yes, chipmunks can bite. Even though they are not aggressive, they might bite if they feel scared or trapped. To avoid getting bitten, it’s best not to try to touch or bother chipmunks.
Q: Do chipmunks dig under concrete?
A: Yes, chipmunks can dig under concrete. Even though concrete is tough, chipmunks are good at digging and can make burrows underneath it if they want to. They might do this to make a home or look for food.
Read also:Â Does Chipmunks Climb Trees?
More On How To Get Rid Of Chipmunks Under Your Patio
The video below provides more information on how you can get rid of chipmunk
Conclusion
Dealing with chipmunks under your patio can be annoying, but you can remove them effectively and kindly.
Understand why chipmunks like your patio, spot the signs they’re there and use natural ways to keep them away.
Don’t forget to close off ways they can get in and get rid of food sources to stop more chipmunks from coming.
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