If you tell someone that you have a mouse problem, they understand what you're talking about. Of course it's necessary to set traps to get rid of those particular rodents. Who could blame you? But if you're having problems with chipmunks, most people just won't get it. Why on earth would you want to get rid of chipmunks? They're cute and they don't hurt anybody!

Chipmunks ARE cute, we'll give them that. But the fact is, chipmunks in great numbers can cause a lot of damage. They pockmark your lawn with holes. They undermine the foundation of your house. They can chew their way into places you don't want them to be. They dig up flower bulbs. They eat flowers and nibble on garden-grown vegetables. In short, they make a confounding nuisance of themselves.

One or two chipmunks isn't a problem. We can all deal with that, and they'll keep us entertained in the meantime. The problem is when they multiply. When you have dozens of chipmunks scampering on your property every day, it's time to think about thinning the population.

There are different ways to get rid of chipmunks. Some chipmunk pest control methods are lethal. There are also "humane" methods which permit you to relocate chipmunks without harming them. There are also products you can buy that will discourage chipmunks from getting established in your lawn, such as coyote urine.

Some chipmunk pest control methods work better than others. Some traps are deadly to both chipmunks and other forms of wildlife. Relocated chipmunks often either die or become someone else's problem. And although you'd think rat traps would be effective, a clever squirrel may find and disarm them first! Guess how I know.

If you're dealing with a chipmunk infestation, be sure to visit chipmunkpestcontrol.com for free ideas and solutions.

About the Author

Victoria Neely is a freelance writer who also happens to dabble in gardening. You can read more of her articles at Helium.