Chipmunks: A Beginner’s Guide to Care and Keeping

Chipmunks are small, energetic rodents native mostly to North America, with just a few species in Asia. These curious creatures can make charming pets, but they require specialised care and attention, so they may not be ideal for young children. Skilled climbers and natural foragers, chipmunks spend much of their time exploring their surroundings, making it essential to provide them with an enriched environment.

All about chipmunks

There are around 25 different species of chipmunks. In the wild, their lifespan averages around three years, but in captivity, they can live up to eight years, making them a long-term commitment. Characteristic of many small mammals, chipmunks possess internal cheek pouches for storing and transporting food to their burrows. They also hibernate during colder months, an important consideration for pet owners. Chipmunks store food for hibernation, so it's vital to respect these caches and avoid disturbing them. Despite their adorable appearance, chipmunks are hardy and clever escape artists; cages must have mesh no wider than 1 inch to prevent escape attempts that could lead them into your home, possibly damaging plants or furniture.

Housing your chipmunk

Because chipmunks are very active animals, they need ample space to climb, hide, and explore. Standard cages designed for gerbils or hamsters are unsuitable. A spacious aviary-style enclosure is best, measuring at least 4 feet long, 3 feet wide, and 4 feet high. The enclosure should have two or three solid sides with a mesh front for ventilation and viewing.

The base of the enclosure must be solid (important for indoor and outdoor housing) and lined with an absorbent substrate like peat, sawdust, or paper bedding to control moisture and odours. A double-door system can help prevent escapes during feeding or cleaning.

Fill the enclosure with natural elements such as branches, rocks, shelves, and foliage to encourage climbing and offer hiding places. Providing tunnels and nest boxes (minimum size 20cm by 20cm per adult chipmunk) deepens their sense of security. Bedding materials like hay or shredded paper should line the nest boxes, with extra bedding if you have a nursing female chipmunk.

Chipmunks can be housed together, but be cautious when mixing males and females unless breeding is intended, and males should be separated when they reach maturity to prevent fights. Regular cleaning is crucial: remove soiled substrate daily, as chipmunks usually designate a particular corner as their toilet area. Nest boxes only need cleaning twice a year and should be left undisturbed from September to March to allow food stores for hibernation. Good ventilation and mouse-proofing of the enclosure are essential for health.

Nutrition and diet

In the wild, chipmunks forage extensively, consuming a mix of nuts, berries, insects, grubs, and cereals. To mimic this balanced diet, commercial chipmunk or rodent feeds are good as a base but must be supplemented with fresh vegetables, limited quantities of nuts, and occasional fruits. Protein is vital and can be offered as small amounts of cooked meat or egg. Supplementing with some dry dog or cat food adds valuable protein, but this should be given sparingly.

Peanuts and seeds should be limited due to their fat content, and green leafy vegetables given in moderate amounts. Variety is important since chipmunks thrive on diverse food offerings, though portions should remain small to prevent obesity. To keep teeth healthy and allow natural gnawing behaviour, dry wholemeal pasta pieces make excellent chews.

Provide fresh, clean water at all times, ideally in a gravity water bottle or a heavy-based water bowl to prevent spills. Hydration is key when feeding dry foods frequently.

Handling and socialisation

Allowing your chipmunks time outside their enclosure for supervised exploration indoors can help them get accustomed to human presence. While chipmunks are not fully domesticated and generally prefer hiding to handling, with regular and gentle interaction from a young age, they can learn to recognise their owners and respond to their names and feeding cues.

Handling sessions should begin early and remain patient and calm, avoiding sudden movements or loud noises that may frighten these naturally vigilant animals. Chipmunks display unique personalities; some may be curious and friendly, while others can be more reserved or grumpy. Remember, unlike dogs, chipmunks don’t show overt affection or loyalty, so expectations should be realistic.

These social animals should never be kept alone; they interact with cage mates and provide entertainment through their antics. However, always supervise interactions among adults to prevent conflicts.

Preventing garden damage

If chipmunks are causing disturbance in your garden, there are humane ways to deter them. Remove any accessible food sources such as fallen nuts, seeds, or pet food. Installing fine mesh fencing around vulnerable plants and garden beds can help exclude them. Adding plants less attractive to chipmunks may reduce their interest in your garden. Always check local wildlife guidelines to ensure actions comply with protection regulations.

Conclusion

Caring for chipmunks requires commitment to providing a spacious, enriched environment, a varied and balanced diet, and patient handling to support their wellbeing. They make fascinating pets for those ready to meet their specialised needs. Whether as pets or wildlife neighbours, understanding chipmunks’ behaviours helps promote responsible ownership and coexistence.