Identification | Biology | Damage Identification | Management | Handling
Damage to Structures
Their burrows can damage pool liners. The act of digging may undermine retaining walls and cause collapse. Chipmunks typically enter buildings along the sill plate, through dryer vents, along the roof line, and under siding.
Chipmunks sometimes access buildings under siding.
Photo by Stephen M. Vantassel.
Damage to Livestock and Pets
Chipmunks pose minimal threat to livestock and pets.
Damage to Landscapes
Most damage by chipmunks occurs in home landscapes where vegetables are damaged, or bird seed and flowers are eaten. Chipmunks do little damage to lawns.
Health and Safety Concerns
Chipmunks generally do not pose a direct threat to humans or pets. They typically flee when approached. Chipmunks are not significant carriers of diseases harmful to humans. All rodents are susceptible to Lyme disease.
Nuisance Problems
Most conflicts with chipmunks are nuisance problems. They may consume flower bulbs, seeds, seedlings, bird seed, grass seed, and pet food that is not stored in rodent-proof storage containers. In New England, chipmunks cause considerable damage to the tubing systems of maple sugar producers by gnawing the plastic spiles and lines.