How to Get Chipmunks Out From Under Sheds

Chipmunks are easily recognized rodents, with striped backs and long furry tails. Feeding on nuts, seeds, plants, insects and snails, chipmunks are considered omnivorous. Homeowners often tolerate chipmunks in the yard because they eat common insect pests and move seeds for tree regeneration. However, some homeowners may find them to be a nuisance if they build their homes under a shed or a garage. Any homeowner can remove a chipmunk, but the habitat must be altered to keep a new chipmunk from moving in.

Chipmunks are easy to recognize.

Step 1

Find the chipmunk's burrow entrance that leads under the shed. Chipmunks carefully dig their burrows near stone walls or brush to hide the openings from predators. It may take some time observing the chipmunk's activity to locate the burrow.

Step 2

Buy a humane box trap from a hardware or building supply store. Box traps are available for rent at some animal shelters; check with your local humane society or animal control agency.

Step 3

Set the trap near the burrow, but don't block the entrance in case the chipmunk is still inside. Place a bait of peanut butter or rolled oats inside the trap. Check the trap regularly to see if the chipmunk has been caught.

Step 4

Pick up the trap carefully once the chipmunk is captured. Cover the trap with a dark cloth to calm the rodent. Move the trap to the location where you want to release the chipmunk, ideally not too far from its current environment. You may want the chipmunk to remain near your yard, as they provide beneficial insect control.

Step 5

Seal the burrow entrance with wire mesh or rocks. If the shed has other open spaces or loose soil under it, secure the entire area with wire mesh fencing.