Best chipmunk traps for humane and effective control

Chipmunks, little mammals, look cute but cause significant damage with their small teeth. The chewing habit of rodents (Tamias striatus) leads to a $10,000 in household financial loss via destruction of electric wires and wood structures. These pests are omnivores, meaning they consume plants, vegetables and grains in the garden. Moreover, a chipmunk is able to dig a burrow up to about 11ft in length, damaging the foundation of the house.

To protect the house and garden, chipmunks must be caught before they hide in their burrows. They dig holes quickly, so trap them using the best humane chipmunk traps. Also, chipmunks often forage in the garden to obtain fruits and nuts, which take months of effort to grow.

Types of Chipmunk Traps

There are a variety of traps that you can use to manage chipmunks according to the situation or preference. Every trap is unique in its utility, efficiency, and ethical implications.

1. Live Traps (Humane)

Live traps for chipmunks are a legal way to catch and relocate them. They are cages measuring 5*5*10 inches with bait to attract them. When chipmunks enter to eat and step on the trigger plate, the door snaps shut.

These little rodents are very cautious, so wear gloves while preparing the trap. It’s better to leave the cage outside for some time to remove the human scent.

They are active in the morning and evening. Observe their movement, as they follow the same path daily and place the live trap for chipmunks there. Be careful during rain and extreme heat to ensure they don't get harmed.

Pros:

• Catch chipmunks the humane way.
• Environmentally safe; does not use chemicals or poison.
• Reusable as one cage trap can be used over again.
• Specific method has designed only for catching chipmunks.

Cons:

• Time consuming, have to catch them individually.
• Trapped animals are hard to move.
• Chipmunks can also return if the same food and habitat are present.
• Not everyone can move because of legal limits.

2. Snap Traps (Lethal)

A snap trap may be lethal or a kinder way to kill a chipmunk or mouse. Its intention is to crush the neck bone when they step on the platform. This trap is constructed with wood or plastic and operates using a metal spring device. Traps do need to be baited, only with either berries or peanut butter.

Place the trap where the rodent enters or exits, with the trigger side against the wall. If the placement is not correct, chipmunks will not come near the trap. Check the trap after 12 hours to dispose of caught prey immediately. Snap traps are best for indoor pests. 

Pros:

• It is an instant way to kill them.
• Cost-effective, price is low and reusable.
• The trap setup is simple.

Cons:

• Snap traps are a non-humane method.
• Dangerous for pets and other animals.
• Disposal of dead pests is disgusting.

3. Electronic Traps

This electronic trap kills the chipmunk in seconds with an electric shock. The trap is battery-powered and operates in conjunction with a motion sensor that releases current when it senses movement.

Electronic traps are quick, clean, and hygienic methods because they clean the trap without handling the animal. The design of this trap is safe for pets and children, as they cannot access it. This method is used in dry, indoor areas because water and moisture can damage battery systems.

Pros:

• No blood or any other mess.
• User-friendly due to the LED light indicator.
• Reusable design.

Cons:

• The initial cost is high.
• Battery dependent, stops working once the battery dies.
• Traps only one chipmunk at a time.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Trap

Before buying the trap, keep these important points in mind. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a trap to control the chipmunks effectively.

• Humane vs. Lethal Approach

First, decide how to deal with the chipmunk. There are two types of traps: humane chipmunk traps that catch the animal alive and release it to another location. On the other hand, lethal traps are used to kill, and this method is considered unethical. Decide on the preferred approach: catching rodents alive or killing them instantly.

• Ease of Use and Safety

Ease of use and safety are important factors when choosing a trap. Check for any risk of injury while setting up the trap. Analyse how many chances it has of being accidentally triggered. Choose a trap that is set up without the need for any tools and is safe for children and other animals.

• Durability and Weather Resistance

The material from which the trap is made cannot be chewed by chipmunks. Traps made of plastic and steel are durable. Decide whether to use it indoors or outdoors because electric traps are also made of plastic. However, they are not weather resistant. Electric traps are operated with a battery, so they allow use only in indoor and dry places.

• Effectiveness

Effectiveness depends on the lock mechanism and the proper placement of the trap. The trap's mechanism must be highly sensitive so that the moment chipmunks enter or touch the bait, it should activate immediately. The trap needs to be auto-locking and escape-free. This way, the rodent does not push its way out the door.

• Size and Reusability

The trap should be small enough so that the chipmunk cannot escape, yet large enough to avoid injury. There are many sizes to choose from, but do not go with a smaller size than 5*5*10 inches. Cleanliness is important for reusability. Some modern traps also have a separate bait cup that's simple to wash.

5 Best Chipmunk Traps For Effective Control

Tired of using natural remedies to get rid of chipmunks? It’s time to use effective traps to catch them. Here are some of the best chipmunk traps that actually work.

1. GONZO Safe Haven Live Catch Chipmunk Max Trap

Gonzo Safe Haven Max traps are used to catch chipmunks alive and release them 100 yards away without harming them. This Max Trap design is secure for everyone because there are minimal chances of accidental triggering. Plastic is not used to create this trap, so it is environmentally friendly.

Setup is easy and time-saving. Insert the chipmunk’s favorite food and place it in their active area. The spacious interior of the trap provides a stress-free environment for them, and they are unable to escape.

• Made with rust proof material.
• Lightweight design but built strong.
• Chipmunks can see the bait due to wire net design.
• A safety lock mechanism to prevent accidental release.

2. Rat and Chipmunk Traps

Tratper rat and chipmunk traps are a safe and reliable solution for catching rodents. Their covered snap trap is designed to prevent pets and children from accidentally activating it, making it safe for home use. The dual entry tunnel and hands-free setting system make it easy to use. Just put the bait in and press the lever.

Its sensitive trigger and powerful jaws kill rodents humanely so that they don't feel unnecessary pain. This trap is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Moreover, its ABS plastic makes it unbreakable and long-lasting. This trap is reusable and washable; just wear gloves while cleaning it.   

• Waterproof design, effective for every weather.
• Compact size, easy to fit under the furniture and corners.
• Made of odor-resistant material.
• Quick reset mechanism.

3. Gingbau Live Chipmunk Trap

The Gingbau live chipmunk trap is a reusable and humane cage trap designed for the safe and effective capture of rats, chipmunks, mice, and other small rodents. It is constructed of lightweight, durable galvanized steel. Its construction is so finely tuned that as soon as the rodent comes into contact with the pedal, the trap instantly shuts shut, closing the auto-lock door so the animal can’t escape.

The trap’s dimensions are 10.5" x 5.5" x 4.5, so it is convenient to use both indoors and outdoors. Gingbau traps are easy to set up (they come with instructions). This trap is suitable for people who don’t want to kill the rodents but rather catch them and take them away from their property.

• Rust resistant coating pistes it durable.
• No sharp edges.
• A well aired trap ensures the animal does not suffocate.

4. Six Pack Trap for Chipmunks

The Guarden Six Pack Trap is a contemporary, powerful, and effective tool for chipmunk, rat, and vole control. It works both inside and out. It is simple to setup, and anyone should be able to figure it out. This trap features a removeable cup which eliminates the mess and allows for fast and easy baiting.

Additionally, the best part is that there is no need to touch the rodents while disposing of them. Due to the trap's humane design, rats do not suffer unnecessarily. It is made of durable plastic that is perfect for reuse, making it an alternative to toxic poison. It is the best choice for those who want a fast, clean, and chemical-free chipmunk control for gardens.

• Non-slip grip base design that holds the trap firmly.
• Quick and guaranteed capture with an extra strong spring mechanism.
• Odor control design.

5. IIWEY Live Trap for Chipmunks

IIWEY 12-inch enlarged humane trap is a safe, no kill solution for chipmunks that doesn’t injure them. Compared to other traps, the large size of this product causes no suffocation and no injury to the tail. It is safe for kids and pets because it doesn’t contain any sharp mechanism or electric shock.

Moreover, it is easy to set, just open the front door, put bait inside, and set the trap. When a rodent is caught inside it, release it away from the house by opening the front door. Iron sheet-reinforced doors make them so strong that chipmunks cannot damage them by chewing.

• Transparent plastic body to monitor the movement of rodents.
• Extra air ventilation slots for fresh air flow.
• Fixed bait holder to set the food inside the trap.
• Non-toxic, chemical free solution.

How to Use a Chipmunk Trap Effectively

It is not enough to just set the trap; it works effectively only when some essential points are considered. Below are some ways on how to catch chipmunks by using traps effectively.

Choosing the Right Location

Trapping chipmunks is all about placement. So, monitor their movements, including where they all tend to regularly move, their runs and burrow sites. Identify problem locations by observing chewed nuts and vegetables on the ground. Then, place the trap near the entrance of the burrow along the wall.

Best Bait for Chipmunk Traps

Bait is a food to attract the prey in a trap, so use the chipmunk's favourite food. Here is a list of best bait for chipmunk traps that they like to eat:

• Peanut butter 
• Sunflower Seeds
• Peanut and Acorns
• Berries
• Pecan
• Grain

Place bait strategically by creating a trail with it. Put some pieces around the area and inside the trap. Be careful that bait doesn’t block the trigger plate. Most importantly, use gloves while doing all this process to avoid leaving any human scent that might deter them.

Checking Traps Frequently

Traps must be checked responsibly at least once or twice a day. This prevents the chipmunk from escaping the live trap. If a nontargeted animal gets trapped, it should be released as soon as possible. It is important to check whether the chipmunk is alive or dead in the trap, so relocate or dispose of it immediately. Look over to ensure the trap is in the correct position.

Legal and Ethical Relocation

Once people catch the chipmunk, they need to release it legally and respectfully. This entails moving the animal to an area that the local ordinance permits, because every city has its guidelines. Select a location where it will be safe, able to forage, and able to build a home.

Avoiding Harm to Non-target Animals

This means the trap should be designed to target only chipmunks and avoid capturing non-target animals. For that, the trap must be placed on chipmunk pathways and near their burrows. Choose bait that specifically attracts chipmunks only. Cover the cage with a protective layer or guard to protect cats, squirrels, and pets.

The Bottom Line

Every step, from prevention to traps, is important to protect gardens and yards from chipmunks. A different approach works for each situation. Sometimes, it needs to modify the habitat, use natural repellents, or use reliable chipmunk traps, depending on the situation. Explore Growcycle to find high-quality, proven products that are safe and effective to use.

Disclaimer: This material is for informational purposes only and should not be relied on for legal, medical, financial, or any other form of professional advice.

About the Author

Victor Miller

Environmental Journalist Focused on Sustainable Agriculture

Victor Miller is an environmental journalist at Growcycle, specializing in sustainable agriculture. With a passion for storytelling, he highlights the latest trends, innovations, and practices that promote ecological balance and responsible farming.