Now that you’ve safely and efficiently moved into your new home thanks to your trusted professional movers, you may think the work is done. Not even close. You may have some repair issues to address, as there are many hiccups that come with new home ownership. Some of those repairs may have to do with pests doing damage to your roof, attic and walls.
One common pest that may invade your home? The chipmunk. You have to fix the problem as soon as you notice it, or else those little critters will cause big problems with your home’s structure and foundation, even destroying your outdoor gardens and walkways. They also carry disease, which can pose a health threat to your family.
Here’s how you can address your chipmunk problem and get on with the business of enjoying life in your new home.
Signs You May Have Chipmunks
Chipmunks are quick and quiet, which means they may be tough to catch in the act. Here’s how you can tell if you have a chipmunk infestation.
- Damaged garden or flower beds – If it looks like something has been feasting on your plants, fruits and flowers, you could have a chipmunk problem, as they like to burrow in gardens and flower beds.
- Tiny footprints around the yard – Be on the lookout for these paw prints. Chipmunks have four toes on their front feet and five toes on their back feet. You may find prints around the sides of your home, shed or garden.
- Cracked sidewalks and foundations – Chipmunks could be building tunnels underneath your home and walkways.
- High-pitched chirping sound– Listen for sounds like a high-pitched “chip chip.”
How to Get Rid of Them
Here are some helpful tips on how to get rid of chipmunks in and around your house.
1. Nix the bird feeder
Chipmunks feed on anything from fruit to nuts to bird seed, which is what’s usually in your bird feeder. Remove it from your yard.
2.Prune trees and bushes
Regularly cut back trees and bushes in your yard to discourage chipmunks from climbing onto the roof or burrowing in the bottom layer of your shrubs.
3.Remove wood piles
Get rid of any wood or rock piles around the property, which offer safety and cover for chipmunks.
4.Plant bulbs inside wire cages
If your garden is a chipmunk’s new playground, plant bulbs inside either wire cages or inside planting cubes.
5.Use a rodent repellent
There are many rodent repellents on the market such as sprays and repellents, or you could create your own homemade repellent with pureed garlic and hot peppers.
Of course, if all else fails, call a pest control company!
Contact Big Lake Movers
Contact us in one of our three convenient locations if you would like a free quote on our moving services. While we can’t exactly help with any pest problems, we can certainly help you move into your new home to start your journey!
