Chipmunks, despite being adorable creatures, can become quite a nuisance in gardens and backyards. These small mammals have a penchant for digging burrows, which can lead to destroyed plants and structures. Safely capturing and relocating chipmunks is essential for maintaining the harmony between nature and your personal space. Here are three ways to catch a chipmunk.

1.Use a humane live trap

A humane live trap is designed to capture animals without causing injury or harm. To catch a chipmunk, purchase an appropriately-sized live trap and set it up in an area where you’ve noticed chipmunk activity. Entice the rodent by placing food such as peanut butter, sunflower seeds, or nuts inside the trap. Once the chipmunk enters the trap to eat the bait, the door will close behind it, ensuring its capture. Check the trap daily and release captured chipmunks at least five miles away from your property to prevent their return.

2.Employ garden fencing and netting

While not exactly trapping chipmunks, garden fencing and netting can help reduce their access to your plants and structures. Installing a small-mesh fence around your garden with one or two inches of mesh size is an effective barrier against chipmunks. Dig the fence bottom into the ground to prevent them from burrowing underneath it. Additionally, covering plants with netting can also safeguard your vegetation.

3.Set up bucket traps

A simple yet effective way to catch chipmunks is using the popular bucket trap method. Fill a large bucket with water up to one-third of its capacity and place a wooden plank on its side, extending over the water as a makeshift ramp for the animal to climb upon. Scatter some seeds or nuts near the bucket’s rim and on the plank to lure the chipmunk into walking up towards its edge. As the animal tries to get the bait, it’ll lose its footing and fall into the water. You can then remove the chipmunk from the bucket and release it far from your home.

In all cases, approach chipmunks cautiously and wear gloves when handling traps to avoid possible injury or transferring your scent onto them. Remember to check for local laws and regulations about trapping and relocating wild animals before employing any of these methods. By following these steps, you can safely catch chipmunks and maintain a peaceful coexistence with wildlife.