Striped chipmunk
The striped chipmunk (Tamias striatus), often called “chipmunk” in Quebec, is a small striped rodent that burrows in long underground tunnels. Discreet but very active during the day, it readily settles under galleries, terraces, low walls and foundations, where its burrows can weaken structures and damage landscaping.
24-30 cm – Reddish-brown striped
§1Distinctive features
How to identify it
Small rodent, 24 to 30 cm including tail, weighing 70 to 140 g. Reddish-brown coat with five dark and two light stripes on the back, with light and dark stripes on the face. Whitish belly, russet rump and cheek pouches filled with seeds. Its tail is shorter and less bushy than that of the squirrel.
§2Habitat
Where to find it
The striped chipmunk digs a network of galleries up to several meters long, with storage and nesting chambers. The entrances, clean and free of visible mounds of earth, are often found against foundations, under galleries, terraces, steps, low stone walls, sheds and woodpiles. It appreciates wooded areas, hedges and structures rich in seeds, nuts and fruit.
§3Reproduction
Lifecycle
With two litters a year, a few individuals quickly become a small colony around the house.
§4What to look out for
Signs of infestation
- Clear entry holes, approx. 5 cm, without earth mounds
- Galleries under terraces, galleries and low walls
- Flowerbeds and lawns dug up, bulbs dug up
- Small striped rodent that wanders along foundations during the day
§5Why act fast
Risks
- Fragility of foundations, slabs and retaining walls
- Damage to lawns, flower beds and vegetable gardens
- Possible intrusion into garage, basement or crawl space
§6Prevention
How to avoid it
- Sealing cracks and openings around foundations
- Keep piles of wood, stones and debris away from walls
- Protect bulbs and seeds, collect fallen seeds
- Install underground fencing under terraces and galleries
§7Pro method
How MW works
Inspection
Home location and assessment.
Preparation
Customized plan – pre-intervention measurements.
Treatment
Cage capture, access sealing.
Follow-up
Inspection visit – written guarantee.
§8We answer you
Frequently asked questions
Is the striped chipmunk dangerous?
It is not very aggressive and poses little risk to health, but its galleries can weaken foundations, terraces and low walls, and it damages lawns, flowerbeds and vegetable gardens.
How to get rid of a striped chipmunk?
Cage capture is combined with exclusion: once the animal has been removed, access is sealed and barriers installed to prevent a new individual from settling in. Homemade solutions rarely produce lasting results.
What's the difference between a chipmunk and a squirrel?
The striped chipmunk is smaller, lives mainly on the ground in burrows and has five dark stripes on its back. The squirrel is larger, arboreal and has no pronounced dorsal stripes.
React quickly, sleep well.
The longer the infestation lasts, the more expensive it becomes.