Top Traps for Chipmunks – Guide & Comparison
If what you need to find is the best chipmunk trap, but you cannot take the time to research this wide topic on your own, then you shouldn’t worry, as this article is here to give you a hand by providing the relevant information. Our team has carefully gone through a tremendous amount of data including expert reviews and market information and reached the conclusion that Havahart’s 0745 chipmunk trap should be considered as a first option. This cage comes fully assembled and ready to use, while the galvanized steel construction ensures that it can withstand rough conditions, whether we’re talking about the weather or about a rodent’s teeth. Moreover, since the trigger rod is placed outside the cage, once an animal is caught, there’s no way to damage it. If this cage is not available in your area, then the one you should keep in mind as the closest alternative is Rugged Ranch’s 100063928 trap.
Comparison Table
1st Choice
Featuring a construction that includes galvanized steel, this Havahart cage is capable of facing various rough conditions. Moreover, the gravity action door works very fast, making this product an effective partner in capturing chipmunks or other small animals that can cause damage.
This model comes fully assembled, which means you can start using it right away, but you might need to read some online instructions if you don’t manage to set it up on your own.
With a design that features smooth interior surfaces in order to protect the animal, this cage offers a great way of relocating animals in a humane way.
2nd Best
One of the things that make this trap stand apart from other similar ones is the fact that it can effectively catch up to 25 small animals in a matter of hours. This means you can get rid of any nuisance they might bring in a very short amount of time compared to other solutions while keeping them alive.
This might not be the cheapest chipmunk trap available on the market, but the results and benefits it brings are surely worth the cost, so you might want to consider trying it out.
Given its effective results and the fact that it doesn’t involve any chemicals or other harmful substances, this trap is one you should keep in mind.
Also To Consider
This Havahart trap works very well for a wide range of small animals besides chipmunks, so you might find other uses for it around your house. Moreover, thanks to the Easy Set patented design, you can quickly release any caught animal and set it up for the next one, if needed.
You should make sure that you regularly check the trap, as otherwise, some smarter animals might manage to find ways out of it if they have enough time.
Featuring a simple, yet effective design and an Easy Set technology, this Havahart model is one that could surely go to the top of your list of preferences.
10 Best Chipmunk Traps (Reviews) in 2023
If you have gone through several chipmunk trap reviews until now but you are still not sure what benefits each model brings, then this next section will surely come in handy. We’ve picked our favorite traps from high-rated models, and in the detailed reviews below you can see what each one has to offer.
1. Havahart 0745 One Door Animal Trap for Chipmunk
Havahart’s product is a good chipmunk trap that features a patented design which enables you to quickly and safely catch and then release small animals. This model is ideal if you want to find solutions that don’t injure the animals, but merely allow you to relocate them, thanks to its structure.
Suitable for a wide range of species such as chipmunks, squirrels, or weasels, this 1-door animal trap is made of sturdy rust-resistant wire mesh and includes steel reinforcements that will allow you to use it for a long time. Since the mesh openings are smaller than those of other similar products, they prevent potential escapes or stolen baits.
Moreover, its patented design features a gravity action door as well as a sensitive trigger that both ensure effective and secure captures. As the door and the handle guard are solid, they protect you during transportation, while the smooth internal edges keep the animals safe.
Pros
This Havahart trap comes fully assembled and ready to use, which means that you don’t need to go through complicated instructions to be able to enjoy its benefits right away.
Due to the galvanized steel construction, you can be sure that it will withstand the test of time, and also that animals cannot escape while you are taking them to another location.
With measurements of 16” x 6” x 6” and a gravity action door, this trap works very fast and it’s easy to use.
As the trigger road is placed outside the trap, there’s no risk of the animal damaging it while caught inside.
Cons
While it’s true that the trap comes fully assembled, you still need to set it up, and here you might need to find some online instructions and advice if you are new to this.
Some animals are very cautious, so you might have to try different baits or leave the door open all the time for a couple of days to gain their confidence.
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2. Rugged Ranch Products 100063928 Squirrelinator Trap
In case you need a solution for trapping chipmunks in yard, then this Rugged Ranch item might be exactly the help you need. Its unique design allows you to effectively catch small animals, particularly chipmunks and squirrels, and relocate them where you might see fit.
If you decide to give it a try, you won’t have to deal with crops being damaged throughout the year by rodents anymore. According to the manufacturer, this effective trap can catch up to 25 squirrels or other similar animals in just a few hours.
What this also means is that you can avoid using other types of baits that can be significantly more expensive, not to mention that they might also be less humane in their approach. Plus, since you don’t need to use glue or other chemicals that might pose a threat to your own pets or animals around your property, this is a safe alternative.
Pros
Thanks to its one-of-a-kind design, this Rugged Ranch trap can help you catch up to 25 small animals in just a few hours.
The unit comes ready to use, so you don’t waste precious time in getting it in place and ready to get the job done.
Its effectiveness also means that you don’t have to purchase costly baits or other types of traps that can harm pets or the environment.
With measurements of 23.25″ x 23.25″ x 4″, it’s fairly easy to handle the trap and set it in place.
Cons
Since this model can catch a large number of small animals, you might need some additional help in transporting them to another location, if the entire thing gets too heavy to handle.
Depending on your budget, this might not be one of the cheap chipmunk traps, but it’s definitely an effective choice.
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3. Havahart 1083 Easy Set One-Door Cage Trap for Squirrels
Nuisance animals don’t have to be part of your backyard scenery anymore, and Havahart’s 1083 model can surely help you achieve this goal. Thanks to the patented Easy Set technology it features, catching small animals that can otherwise damage many things around your home has never been easier.
What this Easy Set technology actually means is that you can set the trap with a pull of a lever. According to many reviews and experts, this is one of the most robust models on the market, and the rust-resistant galvanized steel construction definitely helps in this department. Plus, its sturdy hardware makes the handling experience a lot safer and more comfortable.
Another aspect that makes this a very good choice is the smooth inside with rounded edges that keep the animal safe from any harm. The sturdy lock also comes in handy to prevent any escapes, while the solid handguard limits any contact with the person carrying the trap.
Pros
Given that the trip plate’s sensitivity targets the animal’s specific size and weight, this trap works for catching multiple small-sized nuisance animals besides chipmunks, such as squirrels or small rabbits.
The releasing part is made simple by Havahart, as all you need to do is stand next to the rear of the cage and pull back the Easy Set lever.
Ease of use is one of the main attributes of this product since you can single-handedly set it up and, once it gets the job done, release the animal.
Its construction and interior space protect the animal from any harm, meaning you can simply relocate it to another area.
Cons
You need to regularly check the trap and see its status since, in the case of other buyers, some squirrels managed to open the door and escape.
In some cases, getting the trap to be more sensitive was necessary.
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4. Trapro Humane Rat Trap Cage for Chipmunks and Other Similar Rodents
You might have had enough of trying other solutions such as crafting your own homemade chipmunk trap, and you need something that works well without too much hassle. If that’s the case, then give Trapro’s Humane model a try since it includes many features that might be suitable for you.
If you don’t want to use poison or other killing traps around your home, which might be a very good idea especially if you have kids or pets, then the Humane model is specially designed to take care of small animals in a non-toxic and safe way. This means you can simply take them somewhere else, once they are trapped.
Since it’s made of sturdy galvanized steel, this trap ensures maximum resistance to rust and corrosion, so you’ll be able to use it for a long time. Moreover, thanks to the ultra-sensitive trigger and spring control door, there’s almost no way for the trapped rodent to escape.
Pros
Since this is a non-toxic solution, it’s an easy and safe way to set up the bait and catch undesired rodents or small animals alive.
Once the pedal is slightly touched, the sensitive system will trigger the trap and the door will shut at lighting speed, preventing the animal from running away with the bait.
Small mesh openings and a sturdy door lock ensure that the animal has no way of escaping, which gives you enough time to go and check it in the meantime.
As the construction includes sturdy galvanized steel, this product will resist rust and corrosion, giving you plenty of usage throughout its lifetime.
Cons
Ideal for chipmunks, weasels and other similar-sized animals, this trap should not be used for squirrels.
You should carefully read the user’s manual before setting it up, in order to avoid any potential injuries in the process.
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5. Kensizer Small Animal Humane Live Cage Chipmunk Trap for Indoor and Outdoor
We all know that small animals can pose some serious problems around a property if they start biting the crops or destroying electric wires. Luckily, there are solutions you can find to solve this issue, and Kensizer’s Indoor and Outdoor trap is one of the effective alternatives you can find on the market.
This trap helps you catch small animals in a humane way so that you can simply release them in another location while keeping everything non-toxic for children or pets in your home. Thanks to the lightweight aluminum structure, this model is both easy to handle and durable when it comes to being bitten by a rodent’s teeth.
For best results, you should place the cage in dark places or on the animal’s way to its nest, and place sweet-smelling fresh bait (such as peanut or sausage) both inside and outside the cage, to lure them in. Some animals are cautious, but you can leave the door open all the time for the first few days, to lower their guard before properly setting up the trap.
Pros
Thanks to the highly sensitive trigger mechanism, once it is touched, the door automatically and almost instantly locks, keeping the animal inside.
This being a toxic-free trap, it doesn’t pose any threat to children or pets in your home.
Given the exclusive patented design it features, this model is recognized in its category as being efficient and easy to use.
It’s easy to set it up by using the instruction manual, and you can also contact the manufacturer to get a video tutorial.
Cons
Depending on the size of the animals you want to catch, you should make sure to choose the right size from those offered by the manufacturer.
Regularly check the cage, as some animals, such as rats, can start to quickly damage it by biting if left inside.
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6. AB Traps Pro-Quality Live Animal Humane Trap Catch and Release
What AB Traps has to offer is a high-quality and sturdy cage that comes with a patented design for great results. Since this trap doesn’t use any poison, chemicals, sprays, glues, or other similar methods to catch small animals, you can rest assured that it’s safe to use around the house, even if you have kids or pets running around.
This model measures 10.5″ x 5.5″ x 4.5″ which means it’s suitable for medium-sized animals such as chipmunks, mice, smaller rats, and other similar pests. If you don’t want to deal with destroyed electrical systems or crops, don’t hesitate to give this cage a try. Moreover, since the animal is not harmed in any way, you can take it someplace else.
What makes this model a very good option is the sturdy construction that makes it suitable for both indoor and outdoor uses, while the cage itself can be set up in a matter of seconds, by following the instructions provided with it.
Pros
The easy setup design means you won’t have to spend a lot of time getting it ready, and the instructions provided make everything clear.
Since this cage doesn’t involve any harmful substances, you don’t need to worry about your family’s safety while you get rid of pesky small animals.
You can use and reuse this trap as many times as you need to, given its sturdy construction that renders it durable.
The highly sensitive mechanism ensures a success rate that will make the problem go away in a short time.
Cons
Don’t leave the trap unchecked for too long since a rodent with strong teeth and enough time can make a hole in its structure.
Some users found the mechanism to be too sensitive, so you might need to adapt it a bit.
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7. Harris Catch and Release Humane Cage Trap for Chipmunks and Small Squirrels
Known by many professionals as a brand that comes up with effective solutions, Harris has been having a long list of success stories behind it, since its foundation in 1924. This Catch & Release model provides a humane method of dealing with any rodent problem without harming the animals in the process.
The idea behind it is a common one, namely baiting, catching, and releasing small animals. What makes the difference is the quality of the product and its effectiveness. The trap is made of extra thick and durable steel wiring that allows the animal to breathe and remain safe.
The releasing process is an easy one, as all you need to do is lift the bar and then open the door of the trap. It’s recommended that you release the animal outdoors, at least a couple of miles away from the area where it’s been trapped. The cage can, of course, be used as many times as needed.
Pros
Available in three different sizes, the medium one has a length of 9.25”, a width of 4.3”, and a height of 4.5” which makes it ideal for catching chipmunks, rats, mice, and squirrels.
The easy-to-use system means that all you need to do is to simply raise the door and attach the lever to the trigger bar in order to set it up.
Thanks to the thick and sturdy metal wire construction, animals have little chance of chewing or clawing their way out.
The metal is coated against rust and corrosion so that you can successfully use it outdoors as well.
Cons
Make sure that you get the right size for the pest animals you need to deal with; otherwise, it won’t be effective.
You might need to anchor the trap if you are dealing with large animals, as they might otherwise push it around.
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8. Tomahawk Model 602 Rigid Trap with Easy Release Door Chipmunk
The Tomahawk 602 trap is a great way of catching and dealing with rodents that can cause significant damages around your home. Let’s not forget that some of these, such as rats, can also carry diseases, and this is something you most probably want to avoid in a quick and effective way.
Specially designed to catch chipmunks, rats, and other similarly sized animals, the 602 trap weighs 2 pounds and measures 16” in length, 5” in width, and 5” in height, which means that you can place it pretty much anywhere you need to and that you’ll be able to easily carry it to the release spot.
Moreover, since its made of galvanized wire mesh, you can trust that it will withstand a fair amount of time with a rodent trapped inside trying to bite its way out. Moreover, being rust and corrosion-resistant, it can be used outdoors without any troubles.
Pros
Since it features a spring-loaded, locking trap door, the animal is quickly caught inside, while an adjustable trigger helps you set it right for your needs.
The strategic mesh pattern prevents rodents from escaping the cage, this way ensuring that you have enough time to go and check the trap.
The easy release sliding rear door helps you get this job done in no time so that you can set the trap again for your next catch.
Given that this model doesn’t use any chemicals or harmful substances, it’s safe to have around your home, especially for kids or pets.
Cons
Make sure that the measurements are right for the rodents you are trying to catch, or ask the seller for further details if you need to.
Small animals should not be able to get out of it anytime soon, but do make sure that you regularly check the trap.
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9. AmazingTraps The Amazing Humane Rat Trap with Starter Bait
This product offered by AmazingTraps is ideal for animal lovers who don’t want to harm the rodents they are trying to get rid of. The way it works is very simple, as the bait attracts the animals inside, and a trap door quickly shuts, keeping them inside.
The unit is delivered fully assembled, so you don’t have to waste any time on this, while the instructions are provided in plain English for you to quickly get the hang of setting the trap. Mostly, all you need to do is thread the end of the rod that is attached to the trapdoor through the hook that extends from the bait tray.
Since all of the elements are external, you can easily do this from outside the trap, while the thick wire on the door can also be used as a strong handle. Make sure to use a popular chipmunk trap bait, such as roasted nuts, peanut butter, or sausage, for excellent results.
Pros
This package includes a starter bait and as well as other items that might come in handy in the process of setting this trap up.
Since this features a unique patented design, you can rest assured that it will bring the results you need.
Due to the aluminum lightweight construction, the cage is both easy to transport and resistant to rust and corrosion.
With an easy-to-set-up design, you will be able to start using it right away and always be ready for your next catch.
Cons
According to some previous buyers, you should regularly check the cage because if you catch a larger rat, it can bite its way out of it given enough time to do so.
Make sure that you get the right size for the animal you are trying to catch; otherwise, the cage might be too small.
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10. Professional Series Model 54124 Rear Release Live Cage Trap
When it comes to finding a solution to help you get rid of chipmunks, this Safeguard Professional Series product might be the right answer. Specially developed for the wildlife professional, the 54124 trap incorporates several features that increase safety during use, as well as performance and durability.
With measurements of 24” x 7” x 8”, this cage works very well for chipmunks, squirrels, and skunks, and it features a rear release design which makes things very easy once the animal is trapped and you need to transport it to another location before releasing it.
Both you and the animal remain safe throughout this process. Safeguard Professional Traps are available with two types of releases, front or rear, for easier baiting and releasing processes.
Moreover, as this type of cage doesn’t use harmful substances to get the job done, you can rest assured that it’s safe to have and use around the house, even if you have kids or pets that might find it.
Pros
The rear release is useful, as it allows you to bait the trap much easier than other models in this category do.
The sensitive construction means that the door trap is quickly released, effectively catching the animal inside.
Thanks to the technology it uses, this is a humane alternative for the animal you are trying to catch, and a safe one for yourself as you use it, and for your family and pets.
Its dimensions make the 54124 model easy to carry around and transport the caught animal.
Cons
Make sure that its measurements work for the type of animals you are trying to get rid of, as otherwise, it might not be effective.
Regularly check the trap to see if anything was caught, as otherwise, rodents might take their time to try and bite their way out.
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Yearly Guide & Report
Although chipmunks are adorable-looking animals, they can pose a lot of problems for homeowners who might end up dealing with various items damaged inside or outside their home. Actions leading to problems can include chewing on wiring, digging up holes in the garden, or destroying flower bulbs.
For this reason, you might end up looking for solutions to get rid of them. However, these don’t necessarily have to be brutal ones, as there are many alternatives on the market for humane ways of catching chipmunks and then releasing them into another location.
Besides protecting the animals as well, such traps bring another significant benefit, namely that they are safe to use around children and pets since they don’t use any harmful substances.
However, before plunging into the wide pool of models that you can find, there are some particularities you should keep in mind in order to make sure that the trap you end up buying helps you get the results you want. After all, you most probably just want to do this in a quick and effective way, without wasting too much time in the process.
Size
Chipmunks and other similarly-sized rodents need to be caught using cages and traps that have certain measurements. For this reason, it’s a very good idea to carefully read the instructions provided by the manufacturer or the seller to see which products work for which animals. Or you can simply take a look at this article and pick your favorite model from those showcased.
Generally, traps come in various sizes, as they can catch rodents that are either small, medium, or large. As a general rule, chipmunks are considered somewhere in the medium-sized rodents category. However, keeping this aspect in mind is very important because if the trap you end up buying is not right for chipmunks, they can get away.
Another thing here is that you might, unintentionally, end up catching other animals as well, so it’s better to think about what could get trapped and if there are any particular precautions you should take upon releasing them.
Construction
In terms of construction, what you should think about as you are looking, is that the trap needs to be made of metal and treated to resist rust and corrosions. Some of the most popular options in terms of materials are galvanized steel or sturdy aluminum. These are lightweight but also able to resist rough conditions.
You should look for a model that can be used outdoors without any troubles but also for one that can withstand biting from strong teeth. Another thing to remember is that you should regularly check the trap since if they have enough time, rodents are strong enough to bite their way out of a cage.
Furthermore, you should also look for a trap that features a sensitive release system so that the chipmunk doesn’t have the chance to walk out of it while taking the bait as well.
Bait
Since we’ve mentioned bait, it’s a good moment to take a look at what treats these rodents are after so that you know how to lure them into the trap for a safe relocation. Of course, they love nuts, peanuts being their favorite most of the times, but they are also into fruits. Grapes, berries, sweet corn, and different types of grains can be safely added to the list.
If you are wondering what the most effective baits are to attract them, your next shopping list should include sunflower seeds, grains, cereals, peanut butter, unroasted peanuts, corn, and prune pits. Of course, you can also look for chipmunk food-based baits currently available on the market, if you don’t want to create a mix yourself.
Location
Location is one of the most important aspects of catching chipmunks (of course, besides having an effective trap), so it’s important to know where you should place the cage for great results. If there’s a general area where you’ve seen chipmunks more often, then that’s where you should start.
Also, it’s recommended to place the trap is a shady area or along walls since these rodents are prone to hide. Once you’ve caught one, you should release it at least 5 or 6 miles away from your home, to make sure it doesn’t find its way back.
Frequently asked questions about chipmunk traps
Q: How to trap chipmunks?
There are many different methods that you can use to trap chipmunks. Some of these are humane while others are not that friendly. If you are dealing with a serious problem brought on by a large number of these rodents, then you can even try using a combination of solutions to get rid of them.
If you want to simply get a few to another location, then baiting them into a trap is the way you should go. Other methods include glue or poison, but these can become a threat to your family and pets, so they might not be the best idea.
Q: How to catch a chipmunk in a live trap?
Catching a chipmunk in a live trap is actually a fairly easy process. Once you’ve chosen the trap you intend to use, you need to set it up by placing the bait and adjusting the door. After catching the chipmunk as it walks over to the bait, you need to take it to another location far away from your home.
If you see that they are not fooled by the trap, you can leave food and bait for a couple of days with the door always open, until they are confident that there is no threat. Then, as you catch them, you should quickly relocate them to prevent other chipmunks around from getting the hang that it’s actually a trap.
Q: How to trap a chipmunk in your house?
If a chipmunk has entered your house, it did so without having the intention of living there forever. A house is not comfortable for them, so it will most probably try to get out as fast as possible. That’s why the first step is to open the windows and doors because it will most probably get out on its own.
If this doesn’t happen, then you can place a trap around the house in one of those areas where you’ve spotted it. Chipmunks, like other rodents, tend to travel along walls and fences, which means that this is where you should place your trap as well.
Q: Can you catch chipmunks with a rat trap?
Depending on the size of the trap, it’s possible to use a rat trap to catch a chipmunk, if we’re talking about cages. Other types might work as well, such as glue, but they might be dangerous for pets or family member, so it’s not advisable to have them around the house.
With this being said, with a cage you can trap various small animals, so the same one might be used for both rats and chipmunks. However, you should check with the manufacturer or the seller if you want more details, as getting a trap that’s the wrong size might render it inefficient.
Q: How to catch a chipmunk without a trap?
This is a rather difficult thing to do since chipmunks are rodents that quickly move around. No matter the way you want to trap such a small animal, using bait is always key, so make sure you have some of the things these little creatures love to eat.
However, trying to touch a chipmunk is not such a good idea, as these small and otherwise adorable animals can actually bite you and cause some serious injuries. All in all, going for a cage trap is probably the right approach in this matter.
Bibliography:
1) Good Ways to Get Rid of Chipmunks
2) Ecology and life history of chipmunks
4) How To Get Rid of Chipmunks
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