Chipmunks are rodents that are found in North America, known for their cute looks and energetic activities. They are also known to be curious creatures, which leads to problems when they enter homes. Chipmunks can cause damage to your home by chewing through wires, insulation and causing havoc in your attic. If you want to deter chipmunks from entering your home, here are some tips that you can follow.
Seal up any openings
The first step is to seal up any openings in your home that chipmunks can enter through. This includes holes in your walls, gaps in your windows and doors, and any other openings that are large enough for a chipmunk to squeeze through. Use caulk or sealant to fill any gaps or cracks, and make sure that all vents and screens are secure. This will prevent chipmunks from being able to enter your home in the first place.
Keep your yard tidy
Chipmunks are attracted to clutter and debris, so it’s important to keep your yard tidy. This means removing any piles of leaves or branches, and making sure that your lawn is mowed regularly. You should also remove any food sources from your yard, such as bird feeders or pet food bowls, as these can attract chipmunks.
Use repellents
There are a number of natural and chemical repellents that can be used to deter chipmunks from entering your home. Some options include:
- Mothballs or moth flakes – These can be placed around the perimeter of your home to deter chipmunks.
- Peppermint oil – Chipmunks are repelled by the smell of peppermint oil, so you can place cotton balls soaked in peppermint oil around your home.
- Cayenne pepper – Sprinkling cayenne pepper around your home can also deter chipmunks.
Install a barrier
If you have a specific area of your home that chipmunks are entering, you can install a barrier to prevent them from getting in. For example, if chipmunks are entering through your attic, you can install mesh wire around the openings to prevent them from getting through. Similarly, you can install metal flashing around the base of your home to prevent chipmunks from burrowing underneath.
Use traps
If you have already noticed chipmunks in your home, you can use traps to capture and remove them. There are a number of humane traps available that will catch the chipmunk without harming them. Once you have caught a chipmunk, you can release it in a safe area far away from your home.
Call in a professional
If you are unable to deter chipmunks on your own, or if you have a large infestation, it may be necessary to call in a professional pest control company. They will be able to assess the situation and recommend the best course of action. They may use traps or chemical repellents to remove the chipmunks, and can also seal up any openings in your home to prevent future infestations.
In conclusion, there are a number of steps that you can take to deter chipmunks from entering your home. By sealing up any openings, keeping your yard tidy, using repellents, installing barriers, using traps, and calling in a professional, you can ensure that your home remains chipmunk-free. It’s important to take action as soon as you notice signs of chipmunk activity, as they can cause significant damage to your home if left unchecked.