Chipmunks are often seen as cute, furry critters that provide entertainment while they scramble around looking for food.
But have you ever wondered what might make chipmunks uncomfortable or scared? In this article, well be exploring the surprising things that chipmunks dont like and some solutions to help keep chipmunks away.
From loud noises to bright lights and even predators, there are a variety of things that chipmunks dont like, and this article will cover them all.
So if youre looking for ways to keep chipmunks away, this article is for you!
Table of Contents
Short Answer
Chipmunks have many natural predators, including cats, hawks, owls, snakes, foxes, and weasels.
They also dislike loud noises, bright lights, and unfamiliar objects in their environment.
In order to protect themselves, chipmunks will usually hide in or around their burrows and come out only when they feel safe.
Additionally, chipmunks can also be scared away from an area by the smell of human-made repellents.
What Chipmunks Hate
Chipmunks are cute, furry critters that can often be found scampering around in gardens, parks, and other outdoor areas.
But while they may look adorable, they do have their dislikes, just like any other animal.
So what do chipmunks hate?
When it comes to sounds, chipmunks are scared of loud noises, such as those made by humans or other predators.
They also dislike strong smells, which can be especially unpleasant for them.
Bright lights can also be a source of distress for chipmunks, as their natural environment is dark and covered in vegetation.
Finally, chipmunks are also known to be agitated when their burrows are disturbed, so any kind of digging or excavating near their homes is likely to send them running.
Fortunately, there are several ways to keep chipmunks away without having to resort to drastic measures.
For instance, setting up a perimeter of rocks around the area where chipmunks have been seen is a good way to keep them away.
Additionally, using natural repellents like peppermint oil or garlic can help deter chipmunks from coming close.
Finally, regular maintenance of the area, such as trimming weeds and clearing away debris, can also make the area less inviting for chipmunks.
Loud Noises and Strong Smells
Chipmunks, like many other animals, are naturally drawn to quiet, natural environments.
When it comes to loud noises and strong smells, chipmunks are often scared off.
Loud noises, such as those made by cars, trucks, or construction equipment, can startle a chipmunk and make it run away.
Similarly, strong smells like cigarette smoke or certain types of food can be unappealing to a chipmunk and cause it to flee.
This can be a nuisance for homeowners as chipmunks tend to take up residence in yards, so its important to keep these factors in mind when trying to keep chipmunks away.
Additionally, its best to keep loud noises and strong odors away from areas where chipmunks are known to inhabit, such as wooded areas or near streams.
Its also important to note that chipmunks are sensitive to changes in their environment.
If loud noises or strong smells suddenly appear in their area, they may be more likely to flee.
This is why its important to be mindful of these factors when in an area where chipmunks are known to live.
Bright Lights
Chipmunks have evolved to live in dark, shady areas, so naturally, their eyes are not well-adapted for bright lights.
While humans are used to seeing the sun at its highest intensity, chipmunks are not, and they find bright lights blinding and uncomfortable.
In fact, bright lights may even be a source of stress and anxiety for chipmunks, as they are not used to being exposed to such intense illumination.
Bright lights can also be frightening for chipmunks as they may think that they are being followed or hunted by predators.
As a result, chipmunks may feel threatened and will try to flee from the area or hide in the shadows.
To protect chipmunks from bright lights, homeowners should use motion-activated lights or dim lights in areas where chipmunks are present.
Additionally, it is important to remember that chipmunks are nocturnal and prefer to be active at night, so it is best to keep outdoor lights on a timer to turn off after dark.
Bright lights may also be disruptive to chipmunks natural sleeping patterns, as they need to stay in their burrows to keep warm during the day.
If bright lights are constantly shining into their burrows, it can make it difficult for them to get the rest they need to stay healthy.
To address this, it is important to make sure that windows, streetlights, and floodlights are all pointed away from chipmunk habitats.
Human Contact
It may surprise you to know that chipmunks actually hate human contact.
These little critters are not as friendly as they may seem, and they prefer to stay away from humans and other predators.
In the wild, chipmunks will often try to stay hidden and out of sight, only coming out to enjoy the sun and search for food when they feel it is safe.
When humans come too close, chipmunks will often retreat back to their burrows, where they feel safest.
However, even if you don’t get too close to a chipmunk, they can still be agitated by your presence.
They are very sensitive to changes in their environment, and may become scared and anxious when they feel like something is out of place.
For example, they may become agitated if you move too quickly, speak too loudly, or make any sudden movements near them.
In addition, chipmunks don’t like it when their burrows are disturbed.
If you plan on doing any kind of digging or excavating near their homes, they may become agitated and run away.
This is because they feel like their safety is being threatened, and they don’t want to take any chances.
So, if you want to have a peaceful coexistence with chipmunks, it’s best to keep your distance.
If you do come across one, it’s best to remain still and speak in a low, calming voice.
This will let them know that you aren’t a threat and that they can relax.
Predators
Chipmunks are small, fluffy creatures that are often seen scurrying around in yards or gardens.
While their cute appearances can make them seem harmless, they are prey for a number of predators, including cats, dogs, owls, hawks, and snakes.
As a result, chipmunks have developed an innate fear of humans and other predators, and will quickly run away when they feel threatened.
They also make sure to stay away from any areas that may be frequented by predators, such as open fields or roads.
To protect themselves, chipmunks will hide in the safety of their burrows, and are known to become agitated when their homes are disturbed.
If you are looking to keep chipmunks away from your yard, it is best to avoid bringing in any predators, as this will keep them away for good.
Digging and Excavating
Digging and excavating near the burrows of chipmunks can be an effective way to get them to run away, but it’s important to use caution when doing so.
For starters, it’s important to ensure that the area is safe for both you and the chipmunk.
It’s also important to make sure that the area is not home to any other animals or creatures, as disturbing their habitat can have a negative impact on the ecosystem.
Once the area is secure, it’s best to start digging gently, as chipmunks are sensitive to loud noises and vibrations.
It’s also important to be mindful of where you’re digging, as chipmunks have an intricate network of tunnels and pathways that they use to travel around in their environment.
If you accidentally disrupt one of these pathways, it could cause the chipmunks to become agitated and flee the area.
When excavating near chipmunk burrows, it’s also important to watch out for the chipmunks themselves.
If you see one, it’s best to leave it alone and not try to catch it, as this can cause it to become scared and run away.
In addition, it’s important to fill in any holes you create after you’re done digging, as this will help to prevent the chipmunks from entering the area and causing a disturbance.
By following these tips and taking the necessary precautions, you can effectively deter chipmunks from entering your space without having to cause them any harm.
Solutions to Keep Chipmunks Away
Chipmunks may be cute and cuddly, but they can be a nuisance if they’re getting into your garden or scavenging around your home.
Fortunately, there are a few solutions to keep chipmunks away from your property.
The first solution is to make sure your yard is secured.
This means cutting back any overgrown vegetation, and trimming trees and shrubs around the perimeter of your yard.
This will help to create a less inviting environment for chipmunks and other wildlife.
Additionally, it’s important to keep your garbage and compost bins securely covered to avoid tempting chipmunks with a free meal.
The second solution is to create a physical barrier to chipmunks.
This can be done by installing a fence or chicken wire around your property, or by laying down a layer of gravel or mulch.
The idea is to create a physical obstruction that chipmunks can’t get through.
The third solution is to use repellents.
There are a variety of natural repellents that you can use to keep chipmunks away, such as hot pepper spray and garlic oil.
These can be sprayed around your property to create an unpleasant smell and taste that chipmunks will want to stay away from.
Finally, it’s important to remember that chipmunks are wild animals, and they can be scared off by loud noises and bright lights.
If you have a problem with chipmunks in your garden, try using a motion-activated sprinkler or a bright light to startle them away.
By taking the above steps, you can help to keep chipmunks away from your property and protect your garden from their pesky behavior.
With a little bit of effort, you can enjoy a chipmunk-free yard!
Final Thoughts
Chipmunks, although adorable to look at, have certain dislikes that must be taken into consideration when trying to keep them away from your home or garden.
Loud noises, strong smells, bright lights, human contact, and predators are all things that chipmunks hate and should be avoided.
Additionally, digging and excavating near their burrows should be avoided as well.
By following these simple solutions, you can ensure that your chipmunk friends stay happy and safe.